Michael “Mike, Mick”, age 76, loving husband, father, and grandfather, died unexpectedly but peacefully at home on Sunday November 5, 2023.
Mike was born on November 15, 1946 and raised by loving parents, Harry J. Kelley and Dorothy F. Kelley in Manitowoc. He was the third of six children and despite distance, he remained close to all his siblings. Mike graduated from Lincoln High School, Manitowoc, with the class of 1965. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UW-Oshkosh, and Master’s Degree from UW-Milwaukee in Social Work. On July 12, 1986, Mike married the love of his life, Roberta Glassman in Milwaukee, where he lived and worked for a number of years. He then relocated back to his hometown in 1986. Mike was a dedicated Social Worker to countless individuals and families at Manitowoc County Human Services for over thirty years until his retirement at age 70. Mike enjoyed his work with clients and formed close friendships with his co-workers.
He maintained a strong advocacy and acceptance for those requiring access to social services, especially the mentally ill and underserved communities. Mike volunteered for many years promoting democracy through various political organizations. He had a penchant for lifelong learning and loved spending time reading and discussing history, politics and philosophy. Mike also enjoyed writing letters, listening to music, and visiting with family and friends.
Despite his own congenital anomalies and health obstacles throughout his life, it never interfered with his optimistic attitude. Mike was known for his intelligence and patience, but especially his kindness and friendship with others. He positively touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Roberta (Glassman) Kelley of Manitowoc, daughter Anna (Ran) Yehushua, grandson, Ronen Yehushua, and yet to be born second grandson, all of Salt Lake City, UT, five dear siblings, Sister Ann “Nancy” Kelley, Peggy Schroeder, Kathy Kelley Ohlrich, Mimi (Arnie Ring) Kelley, and Tom (Margie) Kelley, loving brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dr. Nathan (Karen) Glassman, Carl (Judy) Glassman, Paul Glassman, Joe (Eileen) Glassman, Louie (Julie) Glassman, and Jenny (Todd) McGilligan, many other dear nieces and nephews, friends, and extended family. He is also survived by his loving and nearly constant companion pup Javier “Javi”, Manitowoc. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Harry J. and Dorothy F. Kelley. He was very close with his father-in-law and mother-in-law, the late Leon and Mildred Glassman, and late brothers-in-law Jim Schroeder and Chuck Ohlrich.
Funeral services will be held at Noon on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Manitowoc at a later date. A luncheon for family and friends will then be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center located on the south property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. The family will greet relatives and friends at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at Noon. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time. Your love and condolences are greatly appreciated.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 North Water Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220 is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.