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Grave marker inscribed with 'In Loving Memory' - iStock - melissarobison

Obituary - Bernard A Kelly

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Memorial photo for Bernard A Kelly

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Longtime Cheyenne Wells, Colorado resident Bernard A. Kelly began his Heavenly journey to his eternal home on September 20, 2026.

Bernard was born on April 14, 1929 to Ambrose E. and Elsie C. (Becker) Kelly in Britton, South Dakota. He was one of two children born to this union. He grew up in eastern South Dakota in the town of Britton. Bernard attended school in Britton, South Dakota and graduated from Britton High School in 1947. After high school, he enlisted in the United Stated Army in 1947. While enlisted, he was a paratrooper and glider man in the 504th Parachute Infantry where he was also the Platoon Leader Intelligence and Resonance Section. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1950 in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After finishing his time in the military, he attended college at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado earning his masters in 1959 in School Administrations and his bachelors as a Language Arts Teacher.

He met and later married the love of his life, Bonnie L. Bowerman on August 29, 1953, in Greeley, Colorado. He was the father of five children, four of which are scattered amongst the United States.

Bernard was in school administration for the Cheyenne Wells school district for 27 years in which his duties consisted of teacher, principle and superintendent. He was in education for thirty years total. Bonnie and Bernard enjoyed dancing and having dinner dates. They were present at all or most of the community activities. His wife Bonnie passed away on June 15, 2005, at the age of 71.

After his wife passed, he enjoyed reading western books.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Pat; his wife, Bonnie; and his son, James.

Those left to cherish his memories are his children: daughter, Kathleen Kelly of Arvada, Colorado; daughter, Sheila and her husband Nick Gallegos of Clarence Center, New York; son, Kevin Kelly and daughter, Maureen Lang Of Hermosa Beach, California. Also surviving him are his seven grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Cheyenne Wells Knights of Columbus in Bernard's memory and may be left at or sent to Love Funeral Home, 377 15th Street, Burlington, Colorado 80807.

Bernard's wishes were to be cremated and no services held. He wanted to be scattered in Britton, South Dakota, with his beloved wife Bonnie.

Arrangements are under the direction of Love Funeral Home.