KELLY, Michael Ambrose

October 23, 1940 — September 18, 2026

It is with love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Ambrose “Mick” Kelly on September 18, 2026, in Kelowna, British Columbia. He was 85.

A proud Irishman, Mike was born to Mary and John in the village of Moate, County Westmeath, on October 23rd, 1940. One of 11 children, he had a modest upbringing in the family home affectionately named Shamrock Lodge. As a youth, Mick, as he was known to all, excelled at the Carmelite school, which fostered his lifelong love for history, geography, current events, and trivia. He also loved sport and was especially talented at his favoured game, Gaelic football. He was honoured to have been selected for the Co. Westmeath Minors in 1957.

Later that same year Mike followed in the footsteps of several of his siblings and immigrated to Hyde, Cheshire, England for work. This proved a wise move, as shortly thereafter he met the love of his life and future wife of 62 years, Audrey. Married in 1963, their two children, John and Andrea arrived in the years to follow. Though he came from little, Mike possessed a strong work ethic and, after being employed for a time in a steel mill, was proud to be accepted into and graduate from the Manchester Police Academy.

Sport continued to be an important part of Mike’s life, and despite not having prior football experience, he was quickly tapped up by the local Hyde teams for his athleticism and skill with a ball. Many lifelong friendships were formed through football, and also a passion for his favourite team, Manchester United. After he finished playing, Mike discovered what would turn out to be one of his life’s greatest callings, refereeing. He quickly advanced through the ranks to Class 1 and was widely renowned as a reliable, fair, and professional referee.

Mike’s days refereeing in England were short-lived, however, as after 19 years in Hyde, the family made the bold but difficult decision to head West and begin a new life in Canada. Landing in Kelowna in 1976, Mike quickly integrated himself into the local soccer scene. He was the highest-level official in the Interior, formed a local association for referees, and officiated many important tournaments and matches, including the Vancouver Whitecaps several times. Everyone involved in soccer in Kelowna knew Mike, and he took special pride in mentoring and supporting up-and-coming new and young referees. When not refereeing, Mike enjoyed a distinguished career with the City of Kelowna Bylaw Enforcement department for 23 years, retiring in 2000.

The gift of the gab was strong with Mike, and his Irish roots defined him. Given his big personality and strong convictions, he was always ready for a conversation or debate. He consistently stood up for the little guy and would go to bat for anyone being treated unfairly. Family meant everything to Mike, and he was an especially proud grandfather and great-grandfather. As demonstrated time and again, he would do anything for those he loved.

Mike is lovingly remembered by his wife Audrey; children John (Gayle) and Andrea (Spencer); grandchildren Jarred (Sydney), Meghan (Brandon), and Rachel (Dylan); great-grandchildren Oliver and Violet; and step-grandchildren Christie (Martin) and Sam (Erick). He is also survived by his brother Joe and sister Lucy in Ireland, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins around the world.

Mike’s family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt thanks to his physician, Dr. Ben Prozesky, nurse Sabina, and the rest of the Interior Health palliative care team for providing such exemplary, compassionate care and for going above and beyond to support Mike in his final days at home.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. A reception will be held following the service. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view in 3-5 days.

Mike will be laid to rest the following day at a private ceremony with his family.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM provided by SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME: