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Submitted by bryan on Wed, 06/29/2022 - 03:34:PM

Peacefully in his sleep on June 28, 2022 at Saint Vincent Hospital in Ottawa. John will be forever missed by his beloved wife of 37 years, Hanna. John was a proud father to his five children, Meredith (Jason Oke), John (Jennifer Kelly), Andrew (Claire Doggart), Matthew (Lauren Kelly), and Bobby (Chloe Hutchison). He is survived by his brothers Ron and Hubert, his brother-in-law John Nelson, by his sisters-in-law Dianne Kelly and Laurel Nelson, and his nieces and nephew, Erin, Michelle, Justin and Melissa. John leaves behind his grandchildren Millie, Dash, Max, Twyla, Piper and Leah, and his grand-nephew, Riley.

There are many traits that made John the wonderful man that he was. He had charisma that would light up a room, and a quick wit that he was always happy to share. He was a gifted storyteller, with a captivating smile and laugh. He was a skilled athlete, and enjoyed tennis, skiing, hockey, basketball, bridge, and more for many years. Above all else, he was kind, generous, humble and patient with everyone who crossed his path.

Born in St. John’s, Newfoundland on February 12, 1940, he left home in 1956 to attend Iona College in New York. He later moved to Toronto and then to Ottawa in 1967, where he would spend the next 55 years. It was on a trip back to New York in 1983 where John would meet the love of his life, Hanna, his wife and partner for decades to follow.

John truly left his mark on the city, with many years as a trailblazer and entrepreneur in the business community, including as the founder and vision behind NABU Network. As a dedicated community builder, John touched lives across the region and poured time and effort into many important causes, such as the United Way, the Ottawa Integrative Cancer Centre, and more. During a career that took him around the world, John always had time for family, friends and colleagues, and somehow still managed to complete a Bachelor of Law from the University of Ottawa in 1974. He would go on to receive an Honourary Doctorate from the University in 1998, one of many accolades he received throughout his illustrious career. 

Still, it is John the husband, the father, the brother, the uncle, grandfather and friend that will be missed and remembered most. Those who are able to attend are invited to join the funeral and reception at 1pm on Wednesday, July 6 at the Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart Institute (http://foundation.ottawaheart.ca), the Centre for Health Innovation (http://thechi.ca/donors/), the Bruyère Foundation (https://www.bruyere.org/en/donate-now), or the charity of your choice.

John’s family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to the many kind doctors, nurses and staff at the Civic Hospital, Ottawa Heart Institute and Saint Vincent Hospital. 

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Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/29/2022 - 07:05:PM

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Andrew Mutter

An inspiration to his community, he left an indelible mark on all those who where lucky enough to know him. A wonderful man who will be dearly missed.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:00:AM

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Chris Fabiilli

My sincere condolences to John's family and friends.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:30:AM

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Guy Warwick

My sympathies to John's family and friends. I was lucky enough to be part of the JetForm family and benefited from John's leadership and his humanity. Godspeed.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:40:AM

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Gabriel McCaffrey

I had the privilege to work with John Kelly at Jetform. I also enjoyed his presence at dinner several times at Ringside for Youth in Ottawa. He was a gentleman, a mentor and a very kind and generous person. May he Rest in Peace.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 09:50:AM

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Dave Van Dusen

Very saddened to hear the news of John's passing Monday night. As one of Ottawa's innovative tech gurus and a serial entrepreneur, John inspired many who crossed his path. I was one of them. John was a fun guy to be around and he loved laughing, creating and life. Another gem gone too soon...he will be sorely missed. Heartfelt condolences to Hanna, family and friends.

Dave Van Dusen
Swift Delivery Systems
Ottawa

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 10:13:AM

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Steve Luke

John was a great man and a great business leader. I had the pleasure of working with him for three years, he was a great mentor and fair manager. I will miss him and his wisdom.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 10:32:AM

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John Neville

John was intelligent and thoughtful but most importantly he was fun to be around. My condolences to his entire family. He was special and will be missed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 10:43:AM

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Carol and Stuart

To Hannah.
Our deepest sympathy on your loss of your dearest John , a special man who enriched our lives just by knowing him .

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 11:09:AM

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Diane Diotte

Andrew I want to offer to you and your family my deepest sympathies

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/30/2022 - 11:27:AM

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Deborah Wilson

I was so saddened to hear the news. My heart goes out to you Bobby and your family at this time of grief. My heartfelt condolences.

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