Obituary of Michael John O'Brien-Kelly

October 23, 1938 - Mombasa, Kenya

October 31, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Michael (Mike) John O’Brien-Kelly. He died peacefully early on the morning of October 31, 2023, at the age of 85.

Michael was born in Mombasa, Kenya, the only child of Jack and Nancy O’Brien-Kelly. When he was a young boy, his family moved to Ethiopia where his father was tasked with setting up the legal system for the country following the end of the Second World War.

From the age of 13, Michael attended school in Ireland at Clongowes Wood College. There he connected with his Irish heritage and developed an abiding love for Ireland and sports. He took part in swimming, rugby and track and field. From there he attended Trinity College, Dublin graduating with a degree in law. He was captain of the Trinity College swim and water polo team which competed in the University Games in Turin, Italy in 1959.

Afterwards, Michael returned to Kenya to practice law in Nairobi. It was there he stole the heart of Virginia "Ginny"(née O’Shea), and they married in 1967. Two years later they immigrated to Canada.

Michael continued to practice corporate law in Calgary. He impacted many in his law practice, later focusing his efforts on Wills & Estates Law, Elder Abuse and Arbitration. He served on the board of directors for West Island College and Father Lacombe Care Society for many years. In addition, he volunteered for several years at St. Mary’s Cathedral and other charities.

Michael was a devout Catholic, respectful, and caring to everyone met. He was a fine man, ever the true gentleman:  unassuming unpretentious, kind and had a soulful way of looking at the world.   Though he was a quiet man, he was known and appreciated for his dry sense of humour. He enjoyed reading, music, travel, and a lively dinner party. He was a loving father, grandfather, and a committed, loving husband.

Michael will always be cherished and forever missed by his wife Ginny, much loved by his children Paul (Sera), Carmel, Martin (Nishi), Nuala (Alan), grandchildren Kieran, Maeve, Dylan, and Jack as well as many friends and relatives.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 2:30 PM Reception to follow.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral (219 – 18th Avenue S.W., Calgary, AB) on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 10:00 AM Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Michael’s family at www.MHFH.com.

We would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mayfair Care Centre for the wonderful care shown to Michael.

In lieu of flowers, donations may or can be made in Michael’s name to a charity of your choice.

In living memory of Michael O'Brien-Kelly, 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.