Michael J. Kelley

June 21, 1947 - January 21, 2022

Michael J. Kelley, 74, of East Peoria, passed away on January 21, 2022, at Unity Point Methodist Hospital in Peoria. He was born in Bloomington on June 21, 1947, to Arthur and Rosemary (Neirynck) Kelley. He married Linda B. Carl on December 17, 1966, in Heyworth; she survives. Also surviving are his two daughters, Michelle (Terry) Johnson of Germantown Hills and Jennifer (David) Danosky of Elkhart; six grandchildren, Bradley Bernovich, Alex Bernovich, Andrew Danosky, Cameron Blaum, Shane Danosky and Shelby Danosky; his brothers, Arthur “Steve” (JoAnn) Kelley, John (Linda) Kelley, Larry (Carol) Kelley, Dale (Nancy) Kelley, and his sister Mary (David) Lee. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Kenneth Kelley. Michael founded and operated Unit Step Company of Peoria, with his wife Linda, for over 39 years. He took great pride in making a difference by serving the community. He was a member of The Downtown Rotary Club for over 30 years, was a member of the Peoria Jaycees from 1975-1987, serving as President 1981-82, was a member of the JCI Senate, was involved with Greater Peoria Crimestoppers for over 30 years, held a seat on the East Peoria Zoning Board for 12 years, and volunteered for the Channel 47 Auction for more than 40 years. He was the recipient of the Tom Connor Volunteer of the Year Award and was awarded Tri County Citizen of the Year by the South-West Peoria Kiwanis Club. Michael was also an active member of United Presbyterian Church in Peoria, where he served as an elder and a deacon, was on the Transportation and Property Committees, and was a cookie maker for the Dough Boys. The family will receive friends from 4-6 pm on Thursday, January 27, 2022, at United Presbyterian Church in Peoria. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, January 28, 2022, at the church, with an additional hour of visitation prior to the service at 9:00 am. Reverend Debra Avery will officiate. Masks will be required at the church. The service will be live streamed on the church’s YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/c/UnitedPresbyterianPeoria. Burial will follow at Springdale Cemetery in Peoria. Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services of East Peoria is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to United Presbyterian Church of Peoria Transportation Committee or WTVP. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.