Beverly Anne Kelley

Many characteristics make up the lives of many great people, but those derived from the heart are the qualities that leave a forever imprint on the hearts of others. Selfless and encouraging, Bev Kelley was strong of heart and very supportive of those she held dear. She always placed the needs of others before her own, and was equally as loving. In as much as she gave, Bev was loved abundantly and cherished in the hearts of many. By 1932, America's economy continued to deteriorate as a result of the Great Depression. Unemployment increased to just over 24 percent with an astounding 13 million out of work. Many struggled to keep their families fed, a roof over their heads, and a dime in their pockets. Even so, the entertainment industry grew by leaps and bounds and was a welcome deviation from everyday worries. For Albert and Alice (Keat) Knop of Greenville, Michigan, the year offered hope and promise as they celebrated the birth of their little girl, Beverly Anne, born on February 20, 1932. In Greenville, Beverly's father worked at a local gas station before landing a job with Norge in Muskegon where Beverly was raised. He later took a custodial position with Lumberman's Bank. Along with being a homemaker, her mother worked as a nurse at the local Osteopathic Hospital in Muskegon Heights. Both of Beverly's parents worked hard to support their family. When her family moved to Muskegon, Bev was about two years old. They made their home on Fifth Street where Bev, the oldest, later welcomed younger siblings, Roger and Patricia. Quite compatible, Bev got along well with her younger brother and sister. With her quiet yet outgoing nature, she set the tone, and they each enjoyed a typical yet enjoyable and happy childhood for the times. Bev loved taking in the sounds of early radio and loved music. Like all young girls, she also followed the movie star scene. With a piano in their home, Bev took the opportunity to teach herself how to play and could play a remarkable tune simply by ear. Even though her family didn't take regular vacations or travel much, they did visit family in the Chicago area and also family in East Jordan, which was like a piece of heaven in her mind. When they were able to do so, it was an exciting time. Bev always looked forward to Friday night chocolate cake night at home. She was quite fond of chocolate and remained a big lover of all things chocolate throughout her life and was well known for her hot fudge. Bev enjoyed the friendships of many. Although on the quiet side, she was quite likable, fun-loving and very popular. Bev attended Nelson Elementary School, Central Junior High and Muskegon High School where she was active in choir. Along with her studies and social life, Bev also worked as a dental hygienist while in school. These years in high school proved to be an exciting time for Bev, especially her junior year. Having been invited to a friend's party, she wanted to make sure a certain young man named Chuck Kelley was also invited. From that point on, Bev and Chuck began dating and became high school sweethearts. Nearly inseparable, they forged a loving bond which would last throughout the rest of their days together. After graduating in 1950, Bev and Chuck shared vows of marriage on April 7, 1951. In fact, they were the first couple to be married in the new sanctuary at Central Lutheran Church in Muskegon. Together, Bev and Chuck made for a wonderful couple. They complimented each other well, and were very compatible in many respects. They began their new life together as husband and wife living in a trailer park while Chuck studied at Michigan State University. Once he completed his college education, they returned to Muskegon where they set-up house in Norton Shores. Before long, Bev was blessed to experience the joys of motherhood. Their son David came along in 1953, followed by Rick in 1954, and Mark in 1957. Their daughter Dina completed their family in 1961. As a mother, Bev was simply the best. She made a good home for Chuck and the kids, and filled it with unending love. Always giving, she was loyal and devoted to those entrusted to her care. She was a firm disciplinarian, but did so with an abiding love all her own. Bev carried herself with grace and had a sweet disposition. She never complained about anything, and made herself available to her children. They always came first, and she faithfully attended each of her children's, and later, grandchildren's many school and sporting activities. She was their greatest supporter, and encouraged them without fail. When her children were older, Bev took a position working as a nursery school aide. She later worked for Kelley Systems, their family business until retiring, and was a faithful supporter of the Crystal Cathedral. Over the years, family vacations were greatly enjoyed. During summer vacations, they went camping in East Jordan, and traveled throughout the entire country in their beautiful motor home. Their most memorable, however, were the simple times spent together. When enjoying free time, Bev loved the beach. It brought her great joy to be surrounded by her family and friends, especially during many shared activities and great neighborhood parties throughout the years. The holidays were always a special time at Bev and Chuck's house where all were welcome with plenty of food to go around. She had a distinctive flair and gift for decorating, and made beautiful floral arrangements. Bev was also fond of a few finer things, such as her collection of Faberge decorative eggs, Van Briggle pottery, and trinket boxes, not to mention anything Mickey Mouse! In a quiet, unassuming way, Bev was the backbone of her family. An example to live by, she lived her life with kindness, generosity and a grace all her own. Throughout the years, her children never heard her utter an unkind or harsh word. And never judgmental, Bev made everyone around her feel special. She loved equally, and expressed her love in countless ways. When it came to the example of marriage in their home, Bev and Chuck made it look so easy! Bev was a kind hearted and loving wife, mother and grandmother with a smile and laughter that lit up a room. Her family was her greatest joy, and they will remember all she brought to each one of their lives as she is deeply missed and remembered. Surrounded by her family, Mrs. Beverly A. "Bev" Kelley, at the age of 81, peacefully passed away Tuesday, October 1, 2013. SURVIVORS: Loving husband of 62 years, D. Charles; sons, David Kelley of Venice, CA, Rick (Deborah) Kelley of Chicago, IL, Mark Kelley of Grand Rapids; daughter, Dina (Jeff) Jelinek of Whitehall; grandchildren, Alexandra, Miles, Michael, Melinda, Kyle (Paige Evans), Cody, Katelyn; brother, Roger (Jeanne) Knop of CA; sister, Patricia Louise Knop of CA. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Zelman Leftkowitz. SERVICE: Monday, October 7, 2013, 11:00 AM at the Clock Chapel - Muskegon with Rev. Stanley Yonker officiating. Interment at Hart Cemetery. VISITATION: Sunday, 5-8 PM at Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon. MEMORIAL: Music w/a Message for Kids, Inc., Alzheimer's Association or Harbor Hospice. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign Bev's online guest book. Clock Life Story- Muskegon