Obituary of John Kelly

John J. Kelly, a retired postal worker passed away after an extended illness at the Sawtelle Hospice House in Reading on Monday morning, July 18, 2016. He was 75 years old. John was born in Boston, the son of the late Joseph and Helen Kelly. He grew up and was educated in South Boston. He went to work at the United States Post Office shortly after graduating high school and worked for well over 40 years as a letter carrier. He spent most of his years working the same route in Watertown near the Arsenal Mall. Because of his longevity , he was part of the neighborhood knowing all his customers, their children, and for some, grandchildren. He never wanted to be the center of attention and happily worked his route in quiet humble manner. John and his late wife, Lorna, raised their children in West Medford. In 2002, they purchased a home in Burlington, where they spent much of their retirement years. He enjoyed working in his garden, tending to it on a daily basis, and then sharing his harvest with his family and friends. He enjoyed playing ball with his son and later with his grandson. He was an avid reader as well. Cape Breton, Canada held a special place for John. It was the place where his family summered each year, reconnecting with relatives and old friends. He loved the easy going lifestyle and enjoyed passing the time by fishing with his buddies and relatives. John was the husband of the late Lorna (Gouthro) Kelly of Burlington. He was the father of Matthew Kelly & his wife Annie of Cambridge and Mary DiMarzo & her husband Brett of Burlington. He was the brother of Daniel of South Boston. He was the grandfather of Nicholas DiMarzo & Atticus Kelly. Funeral from the Edward V Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (Exit 34 off Rt., 128, Woburn side) on Thursday, July 21 at 11am. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Margaret’s Church at Noon. Visiting hours Wednesday 6-8pm. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Burial will be private. Memorials in John’s name may be made to St. Margaret’s Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington, MA 01803.