Obituary of Donald Wesley Kelley

Donald Wesley Kelley passed away peacefully at home with his wife and family in Lakewood, Washington on August 13, 2011. Don is survived by his wife, Geraldine Boyd-Kelley; his children Daniel Kelley; Timothy Kelley; Richard Kelley; Stephanie Kelley Lynch and Teresa Kelley Cook. Don was a proud grandfather of six and great-grandfather of four. Don Kelley spent many years living in Joshua Tree, California, and was very active in the community. Don was an avid square dancer, and was very involved with two square dance clubs in the Joshua Tree Area. Don held various offices, first with the 29 Palms Sand Shufflers and then with the Yucca Valley Star Twirlers. In addition, over the years, Don taught numerous people how to square dance and made square dancing just a little more fun for everyone involved. Don kept right on square dancing until his health would no longer allow him. Don was active with the Elks Lodge 2134 in 29 Palms where he became Chaplain and served as Chaplain until just one year ago. Don was delighted when the Golden Nugget Girls, of Joshua Tree accepted him as a male honorary member. Being a member meant Don was always invited when there was a birthday to celebrate, a movie to watch or just a gathering of these friends As many know, Don was a large-stone crafter. It was as if Don was one with the stones that he used to create his work. From being able to spot the perfect stones among the millions at Whitewater Sands in Whitewater; to hauling the stones home, and then being able to create unique structures from the stones. These structures will stand forever in many parks, government landscapes, galleries and hundreds of homes and yards. Above all, Don was the kindest person that anyone would have been lucky to have known. One never saw Don angry or rude to anyone. Don was always ready to help anyone in any way he could. To his family and friends, as well as anyone that knew him, Don was a true light that has gone out, to be with others who have passed before him.