Peacefully in his sleep on June 28, 2022 at Saint Vincent Hospital in Ottawa. John will be forever missed by his beloved wife of 37 years, Hanna. John was a proud father to his five children, Meredith (Jason Oke), John (Jennifer Kelly), Andrew (Claire Doggart), Matthew (Lauren Kelly), and Bobby (Chloe Hutchison). He is survived by his brothers Ron and Hubert, his brother-in-law John Nelson, by his sisters-in-law Dianne Kelly and Laurel Nelson, and his nieces and nephew, Erin, Michelle, Justin and Melissa. John leaves behind his grandchildren Millie, Dash, Max, Twyla, Piper and Leah, and his grand-nephew, Riley.
There are many traits that made John the wonderful man that he was. He had charisma that would light up a room, and a quick wit that he was always happy to share. He was a gifted storyteller, with a captivating smile and laugh. He was a skilled athlete, and enjoyed tennis, skiing, hockey, basketball, bridge, and more for many years. Above all else, he was kind, generous, humble and patient with everyone who crossed his path.
Born in St. John’s, Newfoundland on February 12, 1940, he left home in 1956 to attend Iona College in New York. He later moved to Toronto and then to Ottawa in 1967, where he would spend the next 55 years. It was on a trip back to New York in 1983 where John would meet the love of his life, Hanna, his wife and partner for decades to follow.
John truly left his mark on the city, with many years as a trailblazer and entrepreneur in the business community, including as the founder and vision behind NABU Network. As a dedicated community builder, John touched lives across the region and poured time and effort into many important causes, such as the United Way, the Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre, and more. During a career that took him around the world, John always had time for family, friends and colleagues, and somehow still managed to complete a Bachelor of Law from the University of Ottawa in 1974. He would go on to receive an Honourary Doctorate from the University in 1998, one of many accolades he received throughout his illustrious career.
Still, it is John the husband, the father, the brother, the uncle, grandfather and friend that will be missed and remembered most. Those who are able to attend are invited to join the funeral and reception at 1pm on Wednesday, July 6 at the Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart Institute (http://foundation.ottawaheart.ca), the Centre for Health Innovation (http://thechi.ca/donors/), the Bruyère Foundation (https://www.bruyere.org/en/donate-now), or the charity of your choice.
John’s family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to the many kind doctors, nurses and staff at the Civic Hospital, Ottawa Heart Institute and Saint Vincent Hospital.
Digital Guestbook
Bob Redmond
Ken Killin
Having the office next to John (94-98) at JetForm, I witnessed the long line of people who would be seeking access to his wisdom. My particular JK lesson was overhearing him promise Hanna he would be home at 8pm, while making sure he was out of the office and home by 7pm. Set expectations to over deliver when it counts the most.
Toby Rosner
My deepest condolences to Hubert and Dianne, John jr. Hanna, and the entire Kelly family. John was an inspirational leader and a gentle but powerful force I was lucky to meet during the first tech boom. Despite his influential pioneering role in a volatile landscape, he always remained kind and optimistic -- you couldn't help but catch a glow from that smile. It was an honour to have known John Kelly.
Shirley and Bob
Dear Hanna and family
Such sad news and know your heart must be breaking. We had so many amazing times together and will miss John’s smile and wonderful sense of humour. Thank you for the picture with the four of us laughing and being silly from a number of years ago. It’s front and foremost and we look at it every day. We will treasure those memories.
Sending love, Shirley and Bob
Dugald Seely
So appreciated this man who gave of himself in a way that was so humane, kind and competent. The Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre (OICC) benefited greatly from his guidance and I enjoyed and will our interactions very much. John was a wonderful man, and the community has lost a great one. My heart goes out to Hanna and John's children and grandchildren.
Diana Durnford
I first knew John in a professional context and then later as a family man through my friendship with Hanna. Time spent with him was always a privilege and a pleasure. A great loss. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Katharine and Frank Lupoli
We have fond memories of our times with John. They are markers of our youth and fun times together. We will remember his laugh and smile.
James Bagnall
Dear Hanna, I had a lot of conversations with John over the years. He was unfailingly civil and generous with his time which I especially appreciated as a reporter. Looking back over his career two things stand out for me: the sheer breadth of his entrepreneurial and community activities; and his undeniable decency. I'm very sorry for your loss.
Frank D’ADDARIO
What a remarkable individual. Just a person of great demeanour. My condolences to the family and all his friends.
Pat Plummer
Dear Hanna and family. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I had the honour and privilege of working with John over several decades - at Systemhouse, Jetform, United Way and Clearford. His integrity, kindness, compassion and sense of fun shone through. He was truly one of my most favorite human beings. God bless you.
I will miss this exceptional man who was my best friend for some 80 years