Obituary of Kiyoshi (Kelly) Nagai

July 3, 1932 - Eburne, British Columbia

July 23, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with deep sadness, the family announces the passing of Kiyoshi “Kelly” Nagai, beloved husband of Ruth Nagai (nee Minamide).  Kelly passed away peacefully at Mount Royal Care Centre on July 23, 2022, at the age of 90 years.

Kelly is lovingly remembered by his wife, Ruth, of 61 years; sons: Blair (Venus) and Trevor (Hilda) and daughter, Karen; and grandchildren: Sydney, Brandon, Justin and Nina Nagai.

Survived by his sisters: Aiko Nagai and Kay (Bill) Toyota; sisters-in-law: Setsuko Nagai, Rie Nagai and Kin Minamide; and many nieces and nephews. Kelly was predeceased by his parents, Matsunosuke and Chiyo Nagai; brothers: Bill, Jack and Ronald Nagai; sister: Mary Nagai; brothers-in-law: Phil Minamide, Stephen Minamide and Jim Webster; and sister-in-law: Mary Minamide.

Kelly was employed with the City of Calgary for 36 years; starting with the Utilities for the first two years and the remaining 34 years in Property Tax.  Upon his retirement from the City in July 1987, he enrolled in courses with H&R Block and worked for them for 5 years during the tax season.

The family was of prime importance to Kelly, and he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.  He took great interest in what was happening in their lives and was very proud of their individual achievements.  We have many happy memories of family gatherings and the numerous fun camping trips with family and friends.  Also, his friends were very important to Kelly, and he valued their friendship.

Starting from an early age, Kelly truly enjoyed music.  He played a little harmonica and accordion in his younger days.  Later, his interest turned to photography; took a short course, invested in a camera and equipment and enjoyed taking pictures.

Kelly enjoyed his community involvement and was an active long-time member of St. Matthew’s United Church, of the Gadabouts/Prairie Winds Square Dance clubs and Kotobuki-Kai (Japanese Seniors) until his health started to fail.  Kelly was honored to be a participant in the square dance segment for the opening ceremonies of both the 1988 Winter Olympics and the 1997 World Police & Fire Games.  He was a member of the hosting team for the Japanese skaters for two Skate Canada competitions held in Calgary.

A Funeral Service will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, July 29, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Kelly’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Calgary, 800, 7015 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 2K6, (403)290-0110, www.alzheimercalgary.com, The Calgary Japanese Community Association Legacy Fund, 2236 – 29 St SW, Calgary, AB, T3E 2K2, (403)242-4143, https://calgaryjca.com/legacy-project/, or to a charity of your choice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thank you to Mary Ann Clearwaters, the entire staff at Mount Royal Care Centre and to Dr. Heather Taylor for their excellent dedicated care. We are most grateful for the kind and compassionate care Kelly received during his final week

In living memory of Kiyoshi Nagai, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Click Here to View Kiyoshi Nagai's Memorial Card

Thank you for joining us for the live streaming of this event

(The event start time on our video player has automatically adjusted to match your time zone)

Our technical team does everything possible to ensure the best quality of the live-stream service. 

Unfortunately, there are times when the internet connection at the venue or where you are viewing from may cause interference and buffering.

We apologize if this is the case with today’s live stream, but we want to assure you that this service will be recorded and uploaded following the service.