It is with much sadness that the family announces the passing of John Gerald Kelly. John joined his wife Jeannette (nee Forest) on Thursday, May 6th, 2021. He is survived by his son Sean (Liz), grandsons Benjamin and Quinton, brother Paul (Jane) of Kingston, Ontario, and sister Patricia (Bob) of Sioux Lookout, Ontario. He will be greatly missed by Richard (Claire), Ronald (Sue), and Dorothy Forest, his nieces and nephews and many very dear and lifelong friends. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, John immigrated to Kingston, Ontario where he grew up and graduated from Queens University. John aka “Mad Dog” had a long and accomplished career with INCO Ltd. where he retired as Vice President of Ontario Operations. He built strong and lasting bonds with the workforce at every plant he was stationed at. His keen knowledge and no-nonsense approach to mining and its processes coupled with his ability to relate and communicate were key in his success and helping others recognize their own potential. Despite a demanding career, John volunteered on many boards, initiatives, and charitable organizations. From time to time, his name is still mentioned in the headframes; he is a true legend. John was a genuine family man who always made time for his wife and son, and special grandsons. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed many wonderful years at Lake Panache and at The Camp up on the KVP road. John will also be greatly missed at the Copper Cliff Curling Club where he was very active. John leaves behind an incredible collective of friends, family and colleagues, big enough to ring the entire Sudbury Basin. He will be sadly missed but in our hearts forever. A celebration of life will be held once restrictions are lifted. Donations made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.
John’s passing marks the loss of a truly admired and highly respected legend in the mining industry. I worked for and with John for many years.In my opinion, John was 5 parts “all Business”, 2 parts “entertainer” and 3 parts “a superb specialist at building and maintaining strong personal relationships”. There are so many amazing, positive stories and recollections with John. The family should be very proud of such an accomplished and personable man.
May 13, 2021
I worked for John at many headframes and will always remember his strong leadership, guidance, mentoring and support. John was a giant in every area he worked and helped shape the mining at INCO and countless careers. INCO was a better place to work when he was there. God Bless him and provide comfort to his family in this time of sadness.
May 12, 2021
My condolences on John’s passing. He definitely had a tough exterior but a huge heart. I curled (and lost) a lot of great games against him and loved watching him and his team curl together. He will be truly missesd.
May 10, 2021
Claire and Rick
Sorry to hear the loss of your brother-in-law. Condolences to you and your family
May 10, 2021
Sorry for your loss Sean, for your mom and now your dad. Hope to be able to celebrate his life with you soon. All our love to you and your family.
Stephanie and Shawn Morrison
May 10, 2021
I was so sorry to hear of John’s passing, he was a vital part of the Copper Cliff Curling Club, and he held a very special place in my heart. The place just won’t be the same without him, I’ll miss his attempts at acting grumpy and his secret sly smile when I called him out on it.
May 10, 2021
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. My condolences to the family. John was one of the smartest and most interesting people I have ever met.
May 10, 2021