Jim Kelly
It is with heartfelt sadness the family of James Lloyd Robert Kelly of Owen Sound announce his passing, which occurred suddenly after a brief illness. Born in St. Stephen, New Brunswick in June 1940, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Stella (O’Brien) Kelly and brother to the late Dorothy Patterson.
In Jim’s earlier years after achieving his Chartered Professional Accountant Qualification in 1964, he went on to a number of senior financial and administrative positions including Xerox Canada, where he acted as the General Manager of their equipment leasing division. He then become the Chief Financial Officer of the largest vehicle leasing company of Canada, Triathlon Leasing. In 1998 Jim relocated to Owen Sound and fulfilled his dream of owning and operating a very successful business; Earth Power Tractors, a well established Kubota and equipment dealership located locally in Owen Sound, Meaford and Stayner.
Jim was known for his witty humour, charm and always having a smile on his face, he loved singing country music (Kenny Rogers was a favourite), a good game of golf (earning him the nickname Birdie Kelly), he was an exceptional pool player and in his younger days earned money for school by hustling at the local pool hall, he also loved travelling the world and of course playing a challenging game of crib for pocket change (or more if you lost consistently). Most importantly Jim loved spending time with his family, who loved him dearly and enjoyed their special time together creating memories that will last our lifetimes. He became the ultimate family man and could be heard rapping with his grandkids to Slim Shady and dancing to Old Town Road, fortunately the family have videos of the rapping and the dancing which will be cherished forever.
Jim was a loving and devoted father, proud grandfather (Papa), caring younger brother, wonderful uncle, valued business partner and trusted friend. Jim is survived by his loving daughters Cynthia Barton and Susan Winter, sons in law Jim Winter and Geoffrey Barton, along with grandchildren Taylor Harrison, Devon Winter, Ryan Winter and Jenna Barton. He will also be dearly missed by his nieces Kelly Patterson, Tracey Mendrun, nephew Dale Patterson and their children. To those who knew and loved Jim he will be sincerely missed, broken hearts will take time to heal but we know there is now another angel watching over us.
Cremation has taken place and at Jim’s request there will be no visitation or service. A celebration of life will be held at a future date. If desired, donations in Jim’s memory can be made to Owen Sound Regional Hospital Foundation at https://www.oshfoundation.ca/tribute/.
The family would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Doctors Nurses and Staff of the Owen Sound Hospital and the wonderful nursing care from the VON. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.
Dad you will forever be in our hearts, we hope in heaven you are singing country music (or rapping), dancing or playing crib with Nanna and Grandpa while drinking a few cold beers. Fifteen two, fifteen four….and the rest don’t score….Dad, you have forever scored a place in our hearts. Love always, Cindy and Susan xoxo.