Gerald Dean Kelly

Gerald Dean Kelly “Kelly” age 76, of Waterford, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024 at St. Vincent Hospital. 

He was born in Erie on May 17, 1948, a son of the late Elmo L. and Irma Wilson Kelly. 

Kelly graduated from Ft. Lebeouf High School in 1966, where he excelled as an all-star football player, and played in the save-an-eye game. After high school, he joined the United States Navy where he served on the USS Eversole during the Vietnam conflict, protecting the shores of Vietnam, he received the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. 

Returning home, he worked on the road with TBS Incorporated doing Urethane insulation. Kelly began working for Waste Management in 1987 and was the lead compactor operator, coordinating all of the trucks on the site, retiring in 2011 as the first heavy equipment operator to retire from Lakeview Landfill. 

Kelly was a fun loving, larger than life guy. He would light up any room and would be a friend to all. He was very reliable and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Kelly enjoyed traveling to Myrtle Beach with his wife, where they got married on the intercoastal Water Way on St. Patrick’s Day. He was an excellent woodworker and built his home that he shared with his wife. Kelly never had children of his own, but he was Uncle Kelly to many of his friend's children.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Herbert H. and Marjorie A. Netzler and his two dogs that will be waiting to greet him at the gate, Casey and Sydney. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Dana Netzler Kelly; a brother, Kirk L. Kelly; a brother-in-law, Daniel Netzler (Kathy); and two dogs that are grieving his absence, Charlee and Sammie. He is further survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends. The family would also like to thank his cherished friends, Bobbi and Tracy that were with Dana during his final days at the hospital. 

Friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, West Ridge 3801 W. 26th Street on Saturday, December 14th from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 3:00 p.m. with full Military Honors. Cousin Keith Humes to officiate.

Memorials may be made to the Veteran’s Miracle Center of Erie, 1573 W. 39th Street, Erie, PA 16509.