Neilson Patrick Kelly, 80, went peacefully into the arms of God after suffering a stroke and being induced into a coma. He was born April 11, 1937, in Dublin, Ireland to James and Fiona Kelly.

 

After emigrating to the United States at the age of eight, Neilson lived in Orange County, CA for twenty years before meeting his wife, Isadore, and moving to Culver City to start a family. He partnered with his wife in business for their entire marriage including: pet stores, kiln manufacturing, general store and horse raising and racing. Exposed to the arts as a child, he continued to love and share performing arts in Orange County and San Diego. Neilson also served his community throughout his life in many ways. He was an integral part of Orange County Trails, Orange County Intergenerational Community Campus, Friends of the Orange County Library, Orange County Town Hall Players and more. In addition, Neilson was a charter member of the Orange County Catholic Church. He traveled all around the world throughout his life with his wife and other family members, visiting Ireland very frequently. The true joy in his life was his family.

 

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 54 years, Isadore F. Kelly; four children, Fiona Rodriguez, Bernadette Santos, Brendan Kelly and Liam Kelly; sister, Barbara Connory; 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; as well as many close friends.

 

The funeral was held October 11th, 2017 and the celebration of life has been planned for Sunday, November 5, 2017. Please send your love and prayers as Neilson is accepted into the loving and enrapturing presence of the Almighty God. Might it serve as a relief to a great deal of pain that his absence has brought on so many loved ones in the community.