Obituaries

Thomas Michael Kelly, age 95, passed away on February 4, 2026, at the Medilodge of Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. Tom was born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 12, 1930, to the late George and Mary Ellen (Haley) Kelly.

Thomas was the beloved husband of thirty-six years to the late Mary Ann, nee Duffy. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from St, Mary’s of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois. Tom earned a four-year study grant to the Gregorian University in Rome and a degree in Theology. He was ordained a Catholic priest in Rome. Returning from Rome in 1956, Tom was aboard the Andrea Doria when it sank approaching the United States. He has been cited in numerous books and articles about the sinking credited with helping to save other passengers.

As a priest, he spent fifteen years in the Archdiocese of Chicago serving parishes, and as teacher and department chair at Quigley North seminary/high school. Tom was active many organizations in the Archdiocese. While in this position, he received master’s degree in Sociology from The University of Notre Dame and master’s degree in Education from Loyola University.

In 1970, he moved to Sault Ste. Marie and began his teaching career at Lake Superior State University as an Assistant Professor of Sociology, a position he held until his retirement in 1992. In 1977, Tom was named the Distinguished Teacher of the Year. In retirement, he continued to support LSSU by teaching and lecturing to classes. In 1993, LSSU awarded him with the Status of Professor Emeritus. He consulted on employee education both at Algoma Steel and St Mary’s Paper Company for many years.

Tom and his wife Mary Ann were active in the Catholic Newman Center and at St, Joseph’s parish. For thirty years, this work involved sessions in marriage preparation and religious education for many groups in the United States and in Canada. After the death of Mary Ann, he became involved in volunteering to the Hospice of the East Upper Peninsula (EUP). Based on his work, the governor of Michigan appointed him to the Chippewa County Board of the Michigan Department of Human Services.

As widower, Tom began writing poetry sets and shared them with friends and family. He also relied on single support groups. A life well shared with many he touched.

Tom is survived by three generations of nieces and nephews.

Tom was proceeded in death by his soulmate of thirty-six years, Maryann; sisters, Mary Ellen (Joseph) Rauch and Joan Kelly; and brother, George (Mary) Kelly.

A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held on May 16, 2026, at the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 606 E 4th Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with the Memorial Mass to begin at 11:00 AM.

Donations in Tom and Mary Ann’s name can be made to the Hospice of the EUP, 308 W 12th Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. www.hospiceoftheeup.com

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.