Richard L. Kellen

Richard L. Kellen, 77, of Aurora, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 6, 1937 in Aurora, IL. Rich served in the U.S. Army stationed in Alaska following his graduation from Marmion Military Academy, and spent his working years at Barber-Greene and All Steel, finally retiring from Lyon Metal Products. After that he could be found behind the counter at Ace Hardware on Lake Street, ready to show you what size bolt you needed or to cut another key. An outdoor enthusiast, Rich’s yard and garden were the envy of the neighborhood, and his happiest hours were spent camping, fishing, hunting, or playing a game of pinochle or euchre. Not only did Rich grow a large variety of vegetables and catch fish and game, he knew how to prepare and preserve them. His children didn’t return for a taste of Mom’s home cooking, but with requests for any number of Rich’s specialties. His cooking skills will always be remembered by his family, and they were also put to good use providing meals for Hesed House. He called himself “The Stew Man” and enjoyed seeing smiles on many faces as he pulled up in his truck on the first Saturday of the month with two huge pots of hot beef stew to serve for dinner. Rich was a volunteer and member of St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church and honorary lifetime member of the Lucky 50 Club. He was also a member of the Barber-Greene Hunting and Fishing club, Phoenix Club, and Turners Club. He is survived by his wife of fifty six years, Dolores (Hettinger) Kellen; three children, Jerry Kellen, Nancy (Javier Cortes) Kellen of Atlanta, GA, Dennis (Michele) Kellen of Aurora; two grandsons Brandon Copp and Jon Greiner; his sister, Karen McMaster; his in-laws, Carole Elsner, Frank (Betty) Hettinger, Robert (Martha) Hettinger, Thomas (Marion) Hettinger, Peter (Ruthanne) Hettinger, Lois (Donald) Haag, Rita (James) Crimmins; many nieces and nephews; his special friend and neighbor, Darrell Pittman, and his fishing buddy, Mary Morehouse. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Susan (Jungels) Kellen; his brothers-in-law Steve McMaster and Byron Elsner. Funeral services will be held day, Monday, February 9, 2015 at 9:30 AM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, to St. Rita od Cascia Church at 10:00 AM, Interment will be at Marywood Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 8, 2015 from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street, Aurora. 630-631-5500. Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com to leave condolences for Rich’s family or sign the guestbook. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Rich’s name to the St. Rita of Cascia Church Capital Fund Campaign.

Richard L. Kellen

September 6, 1937 - February 5, 2015