Robert “Bob” James Kelly, 76, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026.

Born on November 24, 1949, in Kingston, Bob was the only son of the late Robert P. Kelly and Maryann (née Savoca) Rosen. He graduated from St. Nicholas School, now St. Nicholas-St. Mary's School. After graduating, he proudly served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic, stationed in South Korea during the Vietnam War era. Bob was a veteran who worked at Tobyhanna Army Depot for 35 years as a specialist in coding equipment and satellites used by the United States government until he celebrated retirement.

Bob loved making people laugh, music, fishing, camping, motorcycles, playing pool, and building RC airplanes and RC cars. He loved tinkering in the basement and spent his retirement on cruises with his favorite companion. Bob was a devoted son and father, and a beloved grandfather. He enjoyed life to the fullest, even attending Woodstock in 1969. He taught his children to always be the most interesting person in every room, and that he “loved you more today than yesterday.”

Bob is survived by his five children, Jennifer (Shawn) Viadock, Melissa (Robert) Spence, Amy (Awuyale) Lopez, Samuel (Giselle) Kelly, and Robert S. Kelly; seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved dogs.

The Kelly family requests privacy at this time and will not hold a funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.