Robert Mckelley

On Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, Robert McKelley passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Robert had a great love for his family and is remembered by them for his kindness and generosity. He was a devoted husband, father and son.  He was known for his great sense of humor and clever wit, Robert always had a funny story, joke to tell, or prank to play.

Robert was born on January 16, 1931, to Joseph and Ada McKelley in Shelley, Idaho.

He attended school in Firth and grew up working on the family farm, where he learned the importance of hard work.

At that time he became a skilled horseman. And developed a love of animals big and small, and they loved him in return.

After serving honorably for his country in the U.S. Navy, he married the love of his life Rosula Marie Hjelm on January 24, 1952, at Lake Sammamish Washington; soon after, the couple settled in the Shelley area and began their family.

Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple.

Robert enjoyed a successful career in construction and later the real estate business. Friends and family knew him as a skilled craftsman, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.  He was a devoted church member, and believed deeply in his faith. He served as a scout leader, teacher and offered advice to younger members.

Robert was a carpenter, but his greatest achievement in the life was the family he built. He instilled upon his children a never ending love of life and taught them good things come from hard work.  He was preceded to the here-after by his father Joseph and mother Ada, his younger sister Barbara, his older brother Bert and two great-granddaughters Caimbrie and Delilah, and his beloved grand-dog Gromit McKelley. He is survived by his wife and soulmate Rosula McKelley, children; Vara Hitesman (JT) of Teton, Idaho, Robin Nelson (Brent) of Basalt, Idaho, Todd McKelley of Salt Lake City, Utah,  Penny McKelley of Shelley, Idaho, Melissa Neidner (Rick) of Idaho Falls, Idaho,  Jessie Siems (Josh) of Shelley, Idaho.  Robert had thirteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren by whom he was adored and respected. There will never be a greater grandpa…….he will be missed.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday January 14, 2015 at Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak) in Shelley. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 7:00 till 9:00 P.M. and Wednesday morning 10:00 till 10:45 A.M. at the Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Shelley Hillcrest Cemetery with military rites by the David B. Bleak Post #93 of Shelley.