Obituary of Richard D. Kelley

RICHARD D. KELLEY, 68 Richard Dale Kelley, 68, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 16th, 2018. Rick was born in Douglas, Arizona on June 19th, 1950. He graduated from Douglas High School, where he excelled at track, tennis, and academics. He earned his associates degree at Cochise College and went on to study at the University of Arizona. Rick worked for Pima County for 30 years before retiring in 2012 as a Network Systems Manager. Never to back down from a challenge, he was passionate about ultra-running. He completed 10 100-mile races along with countless 50 mile runs and marathons. Rick remained curious and marveled at the wildlife he would come across as he would be out on his long runs and hikes. He continued to contribute to the ultra-running community after he was no longer able to compete through mentoring and mapping trails. Always a big fan of music, he became a student of many genres and took lessons to learn how to play the guitar. Driven by compassion, he was a GREAT father and friend as he would often sacrifice his wants and needs to make sure his loved ones were always taken care of. A very intellectually deep person, he was in sound mind until his final day. Rick is survived by his three children, Brian J. Kelley, James "Casey" Kelley and his wife Monique, Adam R. Kelley and his wife Breann; his grandson Nicolas; his nieces and nephews; and the rest of his relatives and friends. Rick is preceded in death by his parents, Ollie A. Kelley and Dixie J. Kelley; as well as his brother, Don O. Kelley. His funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on December 1st, 2018 at Adair Funeral Homes-Avalon Chapel. 8090 N. Northern Ave. Oro Valley, AZ, 85704. (520)742-7901.