Obituary of Thomas William Kelley

Thomas William Kelley, age 60, of Eden Prairie, MN, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2021, from cancer. His journey from robust health to death was swift and a shock to all who loved him.

Tom was born September 29, 1960. He was adopted by his parents John and Marjorie Kelley at age 14 months. He described his childhood in Deephaven, MN as “perfect.” His days were filled with tennis, swimming, sailing and boating on Lake Minnetonka, golf, and playing piano. He attended Highcroft Country Day School and The Blake School before attending Minnetonka schools.

He was a member of the Minnetonka High School class of 1978. He was an alumnus of Bethel University in St. Paul, MN. He worked at League of MN Cities, where his valuable contributions to IT and his positive “people person” attitude made him a treasured member of the team.

Tom and his wife Crystal (Williams) Kelley celebrated their 35^th anniversary together days before he became ill.  He was a rock who did absolutely everything for his wife and family, and he will be forever missed yet never forgotten.

Tom was gifted with an enthusiasm for teaching. He loved to perform magic tricks, and especially loved to teach them to his children and grandchildren. He was an amateur astronomer who enjoyed showing people—especially young people—the colors of the rings of Saturn, the red-orange hue of Mars, and the craters on the moon through his telescopes. He was a passionate golfer, and until his illness was walking 54 holes per week. He was a talented piano and harmonica player whose skills allowed him to play everything from improvisational blues to classical pieces, the 70’s tunes of Elton John; Billy Joel; The Charlie Daniels Band; Emerson, Lake and Palmer, and so much more.

His most fervent love was for his family. He was a devoted husband, dedicated father, and he delighted in being called Papa by his four grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Crystal, his daughter Amber Kelley (Zac Fath), son Christian Kelley; grandchildren Bianca, Penelope, River and Holden Fath; sister Tina (Wint) Ritchie; five nieces and nephews; numerous friends and extended family. Preceded in death by his brother Peter, parents Marjorie and John, and sisters Barbara, Lisa and Wendyn.

An outdoor memorial service and musical tribute for our beloved Music Man to be held at 3pm Saturday, September 18, at Starring Lake Ampitheater at Starring Lake Park in Eden Prairie. Reception immediately following service. Memorials preferred to the family.

Cremation services provided by Cremation Society of Minnesota. Condolences: https://cremationsocietyofmn.com/