David Merrill Kelley

1935 - 2015

David Merrill Kelley obituary, 1935-2015, Olympia, WA

BORN

1935

DIED

2015

FUNERAL HOME

Mills & Mills Funeral Home and Memorial Park

5725 Littlerock Road SW

Olympia, Washington

David Kelley Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 24, 2015.

David M. Kelley
August 28th, 1935 - March 23rd, 2015

Beloved Husband, Father, Friend and Businessman passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family.

David, son of Norman H. and Bernice Kelley was raised in Tacoma, Washington. Dave attended Stadium High School and University of Washington. He was member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity.

Dave was long time businessman and started his career owning Laundromats. He eventually partnered to create KMP Enterprises. Dave then went on to establish Holly Homes which built single family homes in the Northwest. Holly Homes eventually became the 55th largest builder in the nation. He was also involved with the National Master Builders Association Executive Council. The company eventually went public becoming a Real Estate Investment Trust traded on the NY stock exchange. Dave joined the Board and after serving his tenure, left to pursue individual investments as a partner, mentor and advisor.

Dave was a talented and competitive tennis and squash player, competing in many Junior Davis tournaments. In addition, he was an avid golfer, card player and writer. His long time love of boats started with a Tollycraft and eventually led to performance based offshore racing boats.

Dave dearly loved all animals. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guide Dogs of the Desert - an organization which provides training for needed service animals. www.guidedogsofthedesert.org or your local animal shelter.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Mary. Children: Merrill Kelley, Reed (Laurie) Kelley, Justin Kelley, Courtney (Mikey) Drennon, Spencer (Chelsea) Kelley. Grandchildren: Lauren, Megan, Austin, Hanna, David, Duke and Miles.

In the immortal words of Dave, "alrighty then"

A private family service will be held.

For more information see www.millsandmillsfunerals.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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October 21, 2016

Miss you!

April 15, 2015

Sue Clees

On Christmas Eve, we have a candlelight service. The room is darkened and our Pastor lights one candle and from that one flame we gradually light another and another and soon the room is filled with transcendental light and warmth. As I have read the many entries in Dave's legacy, I am struck by how his life touched so many and especially the kids and their friends There are many teacher's on this journey and Dave so lives on in his unique humor and philosophy and sense of family that are so apparent in the heartfelt devotions expressed. It is never forgotten by me that behind this giant of a man is an equally unique and magnificent woman. My love, Sue

April 14, 2015

Julie Drennon

I need you now, Dave, to find the perfect big word from you. The word is hard to describe, explain or define because there is no word unique enough to capture the spirit of YOU! Loving, Complex, Brilliant, Hilarious, Fun, Successful, Thought-Provoking, Handsome, Opinionated, Talented and just plain ole GREAT! I am so very grateful to have had you in my life and the life of my family. Your contributions to each of us go far and wide and will never be forgotten. Thank you for sharing your family with ours and for all the amazing trips Mikey got to go on with you guys. Thank you for raising two beautiful daughters -- one is like a "sister" and the other by beautiful "daughter-in-law". Thank you for all of your beautiful sons and their families. Thank you for taking Bobby and I with Reed and Merrill to the Mariner's game a ga-zillion years ago. Thank you for sharing your Desert Home so we could watch the Frickin' Refs "steel" the Seahawk Super Bowl win in 2006--your immediate exits from the room and pacing fiercely during this game was half the entertainment :). Thank you for all the deep philosophical talks in the hot tub with our yummy gin and tonics. Thank you for coming to my 50th Happy Face Birthday Party all dialed in -- in your sideways smiley shirt and "designer" yellow swim trunks. Thank you for always asking super hard questions, using gigantic big words and making me think, question and resolve. Thank you for the beautiful marriage you and Mary shared, and for the amazing family I am fortunate enough to cherish for sooooo many years. Thank you for opening your home to all of us over and over. Thank you for the rides in the Big Boat. And mostly Thank You for Being YOU! You will be sorely missed, but NEVER forgotten! Your impact and memories will live on forever and ever.
PS: We will watch for your celebration when Mikey finally breaks 80!

Posted by Julie Drennon

April 12, 2015

It is well known that Dave was an intelligent human. So much so, for some,it was hard to keep pace. There were many times he would make a comment that buzzed over my head like a damn stealth bomber but I'd just smirk and give a courtesy chuckle which was typically the proper response. There was one area that Dave and I could talk endlessly about and one area I felt like I could keep up with his ferocious wit. Hitting. My favorite run ins with Dave were always late in a warm summer evening while Dave sat in the dark shirtless in board-shorts while the Mariners were losing 2-0 with 3 total hits. I played baseball for nearly all my life, had a ton of different coaches through high school, college and professional. I'm not kidding you, Dave knew more about the fundamentals, philosophy and art of hitting than all of them combined. I've been coached by hall of famers for goodness sake. The guy was brilliant. The only thing that matched Dave's brilliance was his compassionate rants on how horrible the Mariner's were. Wow. Dave would break down each hitter and how completely and utterly disgusted he was that they actually got paid to be a professional. For some reason, the more upset and passionate he would get about how brutal these hitters were, the funnier it was to me and the more tears of laughter I cried. I have a stuffed bag of amazing Dave memories and stories, all of which include something entirely gut-busting, but baseball is where we found common ground and an unforgettable friendship. Thanks Dave.

April 6, 2015

S D

My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends during this difficult time. Death was not God's original purpose for us. It is something for which we can never be completely prepared. Please know that at times such as these, God comfortsball the mourning ones. (Isaiah 61: 2)

April 3, 2015

Mikey Drennon

Dave Kelley, hard to find a good place to start with you as there are so many of them. You definitely left your mark on me, in a very big way and I can't thank you enough. First of all, you did very well on raising your daughter, she is absolutely amazing, thanks for letting me marry her. I will never forget our Florida vacations, they will probably go down as the coolest yet craziest times I have ever had. But I realize that if you have a 36' pickle fork with a lot of horse power, you can have fun anywhere, such as our trip on the Columbia River to Umatilla, OR. Then you have the Sullivan martini nights followed by Millionaire back at the house, can't beat it. I loved watching the Seahawks, Mariners, and Golf with you also. In summary, you taught me to always make whatever your doing fun! Dave, you played a HUGE role in my life and I can't thank you enough for everything you taught me. You have an amazing family and I thank you for letting me be a part of it. I am going to miss you my friend. Oh yeah, and once my time frees up a bit, I am going to break 79, I still owe that one to ya! "When someone says Mt. Rainier, don't you have a hard time not picturing Mt. Rainier...?" Love ya man

April 3, 2015

Fred Walker

I hadn't seen Dave for the last 45 years or so, but I sometimes heard of his latest accomplishments. Wow!

When I best knew Dave, he hadn't found his "career" focus, but he is the first person I ever heard use the word "entrepreneur" (about age 14). He was also writing some good poetry about that time.

We were close friends as teenagers, usually in Tacoma, sometimes at the Kelley farm in Tenino, occasionally at the Ingham place on the water. We were pranksters (usually harmless stuff) and competitors in tennis, badminton, golf and table tennis. I sometimes beat him at those, but I suspect he could always have beaten me if he had really wanted to. And he was vastly superior in gin rummy and poker. I could beat him in chess, but I don't think he was much interested in chess.

I observed the mutual respect between Dave and his father, and the same between Dave and Dr. Ingham (Nancy's father). This seems to have foreshadowed the way he later nurtured his growing family.

I envied Dave's achievements longer than I should have. Later, I became, and still am, respectfully in awe.

Goodbye, my old friend.

April 3, 2015

Macie Lobe

No one didn't love Dave Kelley and I absolutely adored him. Heck, I almost dressed up as him one Halloween (I went as Spencer Kelley instead, I couldn't quite pull off the shirt with only the last 2 buttons done). I always looked forward to seeing Dave. I knew I would leave each encounter with a little new knowledge and a good laugh. I've spent years plopped next to him on the couch and I treasured that time. I have many great memories of Dave; dancing with me at my wedding reception, giving me my first (and last) Beefeater martini, letting me read his latest writings, which I always enjoyed. I remember getting a little emotional with Dave one day and expressing to him my worry in trying to get pregnant for so long, to which he replied, "Well,.............maybe you're doing it wrong." He always made me smile.

Dave certainly created a legacy, a true example of the American dream. But what far surpassed any of his toys or fun is the amazing family he and Mary built together, some of the greatest people I will ever know. I remember shortly after getting married I asked Dave what the key to a beautiful love like he and Mary shared. Well, I will have to save his answer for another time. I will miss you tremendously Dave, and I will think of you every time the sun shines.

Posted by Macie Lobe

April 2, 2015

Mark T. Ingham

Dear Kelleys: I just got the news, and am so sorry to hear about your loss. Godspeed Uncle Dave.

-- Mayrock

April 1, 2015

Tyler Jones

Dave, "The Master" who I could never beat in Pickle Ball...even when he spotted me 7 points. I'll always cherish my time spent with Dave, his generousity and willingness to share his "Campus" on Cooper Point with us. From being able to live in his Bay House for months at a time, using the pool and pickel ball court every day all summer long... I believe that he truly wanted his family around him as much as possible...so he created this incredible environment for all the kids to frolic in...
Our conversations and his advice about my career are not forgotten. His quest for the longest driver was undeniable...and the one eyed putting stroke unique in itself. There has never been a more entertaining round of golf...than those played with Dave.
I'm humbled to have known Dave and will always be grateful for the memories. All my best to the Kelley family.

April 1, 2015

Ericka Nash

Ahh Dave, so many wonderful memories with you. I always felt at home in the Kelley house, welcomed by your dark sunglasses and bright, clever smile...big warm fires in the winter and countless summer hours by the pool. It is one of my most favorite places to spend time, I could always count on your easy going, fun-loving attitude. You treated all of us like equals, even though we were just a bunch of kids raiding your fridge and drinking your beer. I spent many evenings hanging from the rafters of the home you built and "sleeping til' Tuesday" in the guest room. You are a true 'rocket man', a man that literally paved his own path and walked it the way you wanted.

Even though you are not here physically, your colorful, genuine spirit will always live on. You passed your greatest qualities onto your children they are loyal, honest, fun; full of wit and integrity. I am grateful to have friends like Courtney, Spencer, Justin, Merrill and of course your sidekick, the cutest little lady of all time...sweet, beautiful Mary!

I am grateful to have known you, Dave Kelley AKA Pedro

I'll catch you on the flipside.
Love, your favorite Damn Democrat

Posted by Ericka Nash

April 1, 2015

Lianna Durney

Dave, a great man and father to one of my dearest friends- he has taught all of us so much about living, about family, and about fun! I am so lucky to have grown up being with and around him and his family,-their devotion and fierce loyalty for each other and their friends is unconditional. His deep intellect and passion for knowledge was contagious- you could engage in a conversation with him about anything and always have a broader and more prolific understanding of it when done. He was always at the helm of the Kelley clan with Mary by his side- a true example of Love and pride in their family. Dave, you will be greatly missed, but always in our thoughts and hearts!

April 1, 2015

Posted by

April 1, 2015

elysia lippman

dave kelley. truly, THE dave kelley. when i first became friends with the kelley kids i knew it was something special. i had never seen siblings that all really just loved being together, at their parents house no less, more than these kids. months later when i met dave and mary in the desert it all made sense.

for someone who easily could have done so, dave did not take himself or anyone else too seriously. he was the first to crack the joke, or call BS, but also the first to start a conversation that meant something. dave was more than just courtney's dad to me- i truly truly looked forward to seeing him and mary every year. i respected him so much, but could also always have the best time in his presence.
he made me, and i have a feeling most others who got to know him, feel like family.

since becoming parents, my husband and i have talked a lot about family and parents and in most conversations, dave and mary kelley are brought up. i have never seen a home with more love, support, laughter and generosity. they are a role model for me. and dave was no doubt the ringleader.

when i was living in olympia for college and my parents came up to visit, dave and mary hosted a BBQ and had my parents over to get to know everyone. he said they needed to know that someone was looking out for me in olympia. haha. and he was right. and they all did look out for me. he had a warmth that wasn't showy or loud- but it was certainly felt. the most genuine kind of warmth. the real deal.

i think one of my favorite dave memories was in palm desert probably seven or eight years ago. it was "girls weekend" and mary and courtney hosted a fiesta. dave took annies plastic and bedazzled charm necklace (which was no shy little necklace, it belonged on a life sized hello kitty doll) and wore it all day and night (and I'm almost positive golfing at the hideaway the next morning?), with a "hello my name is" sticker reading PEDRO stuck to his bare chest. and sunglasses and trunks, of course. he was the most fun, charming, handsome guest at the party. he was so happy to be pouring drinks for the ladies, cracking jokes, laughing just the best guy.

one in a trillion. and I'm honored to have gotten to know him and his wonderful family. love you all so much.

Posted by elysia lippman

April 1, 2015

Keya Bernhardt

What an incredible individual! There aren't enough words in the English dictionary to describe him. No matter what Dave always made you think. He would always stop me in my tracks with an insightful witty comment. Often it would take me a few minutes to grasp what he was conveying to me. He saw the world in a 4-Dimensional view, and I was fortunate to get a minor glimpse into his genius. Thank you so much Dave for always inspiring me to question, think, and understand the world around. You will be truly missed.

April 1, 2015

Dan & Gretchen Eakes

Whenever we think of Dave Kelley, we think of the mysterious, good-hearted,funny man in the sunglasses-day or night. We will miss his bright mind,his bright smile,and his infectious laugh. He was truly one of the really good ones. Your friends,
Gretchen and Dan Eakes

April 1, 2015

Marisa Vest

The sweet special father of my dearest friend Courtney, I was lucky to know Dave for 31 years of my 33 in life. Dave always made you learn, think, laugh, feel loved and protected. He shaped my childhood greatly by including me in so many things with his family whom he loved above everything in the world. Dave was so organically cool. He was so fun, hanging us kids from the rafters, chicken wiring and was a daredevil behind the wheel of a speedboat or sea doo when tugboat waves were coming. Always so true to himself and his individuality-it was fun to be around him- you literally never knew what he'd say or do next. He was brilliant but never stuffy. He was also soft and kind and I truly appreciated him letting me lean on him as a dad when I felt the loss of my own-he was kind in listening, even if it was after too much wine and was always there when I was in need of fatherly guidance.
Dave had a way of making his relationship with each person special and unique. My heart aches. I'll be forever thankful for all the memories and miss him always. I hope he's getting foot rubs and eating chocolate covered macadamia nuts on the clouds.

April 1, 2015

Chelsea Kelley

When I met Dave, 9 years ago, it was the icing on the cake to knowing I had met a great family. Little did he know, I was going to marry his youngest son Spencer. Actually, I'm sure he knew, because he was the smartest man I've ever known! He was full of amazing stories, jokes, and knowledge that I will miss daily. I feel fortunate enough to have been welcomed into his family with open arms. He was the ring leader for golf excursions, boat trips, steak dinners with martinis, suburban trips, middle of the night brownie snacking, no shoes, sunglass wearing at night, great convos, political debates and carefree attitudes. I admire the way he loved Mary so much, and led by example of what true love, loyalty, and family really meant. I remember being in college asking Dave for advice on papers, and him giving me these, no sunglass- wearin- real conversation- amazing philosophical answers that would blow my mind. I will surely miss that man. I am grateful to have been able to live with Dave and Mary this last year while we built our house, and spend some good quality time with him.. I feel truly blessed and honored to be a Kelley, and to have known, The Dave Kelley.

March 31, 2015

abby Cook

Dave has been a constant in my life from the beginning. My life has been better because of him. I will forever admire his true individualism, his love and loyalty to his family, and his amazing intelligence. I'm so very thankful to be apart of his amazing life and I will miss him dearly.

March 31, 2015

I got to know Dave at the Hideaway Club. What a unique and special friend. Always enjoyed decoding his emails which seemed to originate from some parallell universe. Remember the super speed boat. He took me for a ride, I asked if we need life jackets, he said it wouldn't matter at this speed! And that's the way it was. Your friends Ed and Kim

March 31, 2015

Becky Penn

I will miss Dave Kelley. He was a true original. He said what he thought and he lived a life true to his values and beliefs. I respected him tremendously. As the father of one of my earliest childhood friends, I have known him practically my entire life - from age 2. I have the best childhood, teen and young adult memories hanging out with Dave and the Kelley's on Cooper Point. The good memories are too numerous to state here, but suffice to say that Dave usually caused me to laugh harder than I thought I could - until I ran out of air. He had an incredibly sharp wit and sense of humor. He was extremely generous towards his children's friends - who were ever present in his home because hanging out with Dave and the Kelley's was always the most fun, of course. The only one who rivals him in regard to his generosity and overall zest for life is his wife, Mary, who I think complimented him as the perfect life mate. I am profoundly saddened by his passing. This short note cannot convey the depth with which I feel his loss or my sympathy for a family that has held such a prominent place in my early life. There is some comfort to know that his humor, kindness, generosity, life views and memory will live on through his family who knew and loved him best. My love and sympathy go out to them.

March 31, 2015

Chris Jones

Dave Kelley. There was nothing about this man that I didn't love. His quirky sense of humor, his quick and very sharp mind. I always learned something when I sat down and talked with Dave. I loved the way he loved. His family, his friends, his animals, and life. I loved being in a room with him, he anchored it. The joy he had for the things he loved was really infectious, he loved making others just as full of special joy as he was. He will truly be missed. Doug and I send our love and condolences to the entire family.

March 31, 2015

John Lewis

to my mentor, a brilliant man. Truly a loss.

March 31, 2015

jiffy lemcke

My best friends husband who put up with our "pod" that sometimes entailed too much" wine talking" as he would call it. . He let me live at his house for 3 months, overnights that lasted for days, sharing the love of his life, Mary with me and never said a word. He spent hours with me during a difficult time in my life and helped me get through it. I admired the steadfast love he had for his family. There was no one he would rather be than with his family and he was never far from home. He gave his children the love of fun stuff to do, 130 mph in a off shore race boat, wild trips on races to the roach harbor, golfing outings in small funky towns, nights of drinking martinis at Sullivans , snow skiing at Chrystal and their cabin, trips to Florida to race his boat in the real ocean, and was the most fun dad I can think of ever. There was NOBODY he would rather be with was Mary. She was perfect for him and his zest for fun. I will miss him dearly - his teasing me and getting a rise out of me every time I fell for it. I will miss his smurky smile when he said an off colored comment and then he would giggle at himself . He was a man of principle and honor and expected the same from everyone else. I am going to miss him a lot. Jiffy

Posted by jiffy lemcke

March 30, 2015

Brian Neal

The best parts of me are a direct result of Dave's influence. That simple. My second dad, one and only mentor and once-future groomsman... never lost someone I was so close with and will forever in this life be at a deficit without his abrasive charm and unique semantics I so often looked forward to. Lucky to have the rest of his family as my extended; love me some Kelleys! Mary, we'll have golf dates in the desert and wine on the Puget Sound soon. Love you.

March 29, 2015

Amy Evans

Dave Kelley: the man, the myth, the legend. He was my philosophical guide as a young softball player when he wrote under the pen name, Thelma Thunderbuns. (Only Dave could pick such a perfect name.) He communicated with our team before big tournaments via letters from "Thelma." His well crafted prose entertained and inspired. As the years went on, I was often struck by his independent mind, creativity, and audacious political ideas. He was, above all, an individual of the highest order and will not soon be forgotten. The Kelley family are some of the most fiercely loyal people I have ever encountered. I know they will celebrate Dave's legacy everyday. Much Love, Amy Evans

March 29, 2015

Truly, an outstanding man. Judith and Pat

March 28, 2015

Honoring Dave's life as a dedicated family man, sending our love to the whole family. Sue and John Clees

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