ELKHART – Kletis Ronald Kelly, 85, died Sunday, June 14, 2026 at his home on Wagon Wheel Ranch. 

He was born Nov. 24, 1940 to Jim and Wanetta (Stalford) Kelly.

He was raised in Elkhart and worked at the Elkhart Tri-State News, his father’s gas station, and on his grandparents’ farm and ranch. He earned a degree at Bethany Nazarene College, and after completing his studies, he joined the U.S. Army.

He married Janet Robinson June 3, 1962. She preceded him in death.

He was a member of the Church of the Nazarene, where he taught Sunday School, served as superintendent and board member, led congregational singing, participated in mission trips and ministered through chapel services at the Care Center in Elkhart.

Survivors include his children, Larissa Avery and husband, Jeff, Bryan Kelly and wife, Sonia, and Brent Kelly and wife, Lori; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild, with another on the way. 

He was also preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and sister, Ardith Couzens .

• Funeral services took place Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the Elkhart Church of the Nazarene in Elkhart, with Reverend Roberto Ibarra presiding.

Burial took place at the Elkhart Cemetery with military rites by the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard and the Kansas Military Funeral Honors.

Memorials are suggested to Whistle Stop Park or Elkhart Church of the Nazarene in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 514 Kansas Street-PO Box 854, Elkhart, KS 67950.

Condolences may be left at garnandfuneralhomes.com.