Robert T. McKelvey

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father & grandfather, Robert Thomas McKelvey, who left us on June, 23rd 2024 at the age of 95 leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness. He was surrounded by his loving family both physically and in spirit during his final moments. He walked through this life with a gentle strength, unforgettable grace and a radiantly positive outlook on life. Bob was a sharp dresser with arrestingly blue eyes, a man of good humor and wisdom who always had a kind word for others. Those who knew him well will remember him for his passion for Ford Motor Company, golf, traveling, the Pittsburgh Steelers & Pirates, cars, long Saturday drives with his daughter through the countryside, his love of cozy cardigans, his go-to movie Pretty Woman, his favorite McDonald’s chocolate milk shakes and the cherished moments he spent with his family and loved ones. It is through these worldly moments and memories that his unwavering spirit will forever be remembered. He is survived by his loving children, Scott T. McKelvey of Shamong NJ, Todd R. McKelvey of Palm Coast FL, Shawn T. McKelvey of Belleville MI and Kelly K. (McKelvey) Manhard and son in law Chris Manhard of Corvallis OR; and loving grandchildren; Scott V.; Joanna C. and Olivia M. McKelvey, Matthew C., Samantha C., and Ryan T. Manhard (with whom he shared both his birthday and initials) who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Bob was born on March 22, 1929 in Pittsburgh, PA. The eldest son of Robert William and Margaret Whilemina (Copes) McKelvey and brother to William Graham McKelvey. He married his devoted wife, Catherine Blanche Kunecki in her hometown of Shelton, Conn in the summer of 1953 and together had four loving children whom he adored. Bob was a graduate of Pittsburgh’s Peabody High School class of 1947 and was a veteran of the US Air Force and served proudly at the Kessler Air Force base in Biloxi, Miss. from 1951 until 1954. He started his professional career with Ford Motor Company and retired after an incredible 27 years of hard work. He called many places home throughout his lifetime: Pittsburgh PA, San Antonio TX, Biloxi MI, Ramsey NJ, San Jose CA, Scottsdale AZ, Marlton NJ, Hudson OH, and Corvallis OR, but he was always a Pittsburgh man at heart. A huge thank you to the staff at Harmony House in Adair Village, OR for the constant love, support and amazing care they provided dad during his final years; with a very special thank you to Lindsay & Joanie Ross. Bob has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his presence. To all who knew and loved him we thank you for making his life a remarkable and joyous one. In his own words, looking back on his 95 years of life Bob reflected “I’m just so blessed”. Dad & Grandpa, we love you and know that you are watching over all of us. If we listen closely we can still hear your beautiful whistling tunes in the songs sung by the birds and a faint “oh darlin’” in your jolly sing-song voice in the rustling of the wind. Thank you for the love and the life you gave us all.

Robert T. McKelvey

March 22, 1929 - June 23, 2024