Elmer LeRoy Kelley's Obituary
Elmer L. "Bill" Kelley passed away July 3, 2008 at the age of 100. He was born in Tacoma, WA March 5, 1908 to Albert and Mary (Nelson) Kelley. Bill grew up on Tacoma's south side, attending Lincoln High School. His life work was varied and diversified, including an auto mechanic, a plumber with the Northern Pacific R.R. retiring after 20 years as an N.P water superintendent. He also operated a well driving business and developed many water wells, both residential and commercial, in the Fife, Firwood, and the greater Puyallup valley. During the 50's Bill operated Kelley Shell Service, located on Highway 99, a mile north of Fife. It was during this time that he purchased 40 acres above Freeman road and was owner of a gravel business that has operated for 50 years under the Fife Sand and Gravel name. The City of Fife hired him as their first water superintendent when it became a city. Bill was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, Lions Club and the operators union. He loved to hunt and fish. In his early 90's he was still putting crab pots into Commencement Bay. He will also be remembered for his great wit and humorous tales. Bill wed Alma Wollesen on March 5, 1932, and they moved to the Fife area, residing in the Fife and Firwood area until his mid 90's. He then moved to Mill Ridge in Milton, and more recently to Linden Grove in Puyallup. Alma, his wife of over 60 years, preceeded him in death as have his four siblings. Surviving him are daughters Sharon Watkins (Jim) of Fife, Linda Senger (Don) of Lacey, and son Mike Kelley of Fife. Others that survive him are eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews. A private graveside service will be for the family. On Friday, July 11 at 4 P.M. a celebration of Bill's life will be held at Mike's home for family and all friends of Bill. E.L. "Bill" Kelley
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