William Joseph Kelm

William Joseph Kelm, 86, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away on July 23, 2024. He was born to parents Leo A. Kelm and Marie Briskie Kelm, on June 17, 1938 in Ripon, Wisconsin. Bill graduated from Berlin High School in 1957, entering the Navy immediately following graduation. He spent 22 years in the Navy, retiring in 1979 as a Master Chief Petty Officer. Bill then went on to get his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked for the United States Post Office for another 22 years, retiring in 2003. Bill had a passion for woodworking, gardening, spending time with his dogs, and traveling with his beloved wife, Ann. During his lifetime, he had many accomplishments that his family and friends are proud of. Bill first met Ann Margaret Youngbauer in 1946. After reuniting at a 35th class reunion in 1992, they were married on May 21, 1993, in Aurora, Colorado. Bill raised a blended family including 5 children: Jody, Murphy, Melissa, Joel, and Todd. He was honored to have Ann as an integral part of his family.

He is survived by Ann, his wife, as well as his 5 children, 8 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Marie Kelm, and his sister, Rita.

The family has entrusted 5280 Cremation with the funeral arrangements. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for August 7, 2024, 10:30am, at St. Michael's Catholic Church: 19099 E. Floyd Ave, Aurora, CO 80013. Father John Craig and Deacon Craig Fucci will officiate the ceremony. A reception will follow at St. Michael's Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Honor Bell Foundation at the following:

https://honorbell.org/the-honor-bell/?form=donate