Larry Gene Kelly (“The Bear”), 84, passed away on Feb.5, 2025, in Centralia, Washington.
Larry was born on June 24, 1940, to the late William E. Kelly Sr. and Irene Opal Kelly in Tenino, Washington. He graduated from Tenino High School in 1959, where he excelled in basketball, earning All-Star honors and lettering all four years. In addition, Larry also played football for the Beavers.
After high school, Larry served his country in the United States Army, spending much of his service in Germany. Upon completing his military duty, he began a lifelong career in the beverage and bottling industry. Larry worked for White Rock Bottling Plant in Tacoma, Washington, and later for Northwest Bottling Company, driving a truck and hauling everyone’s favorite sodas. He was a proud lifelong Teamster and took great pride in driving his semi-truck.
Larry’s greatest passion was spending time with his family and friends. He cherished camping on the Wynoochee River, riding dirt bikes, golfing, salmon fishing on the Puget Sound and making yearly trips to Sekiu, Washington, with his brothers. He loved telling stories by the campfire and found great joy riding his John Deere tractor—truly a gentleman’s farmer.
Larry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Shirley Kelly.
He is survived by his four children: William (Scott) Kelly (Christine), Jennifer Adams (Jeff), Kelly White (Shawndale) and Kimberly Kennedy (Sim); two grandchildren, Brady Kelly (27) and Jacob Osborn (18); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Larry is also survived by his brothers, Bill Kelly, Jim Kelly, Tom Kelly (Linda) and Dennis Kelly (Pam); his sister, Kitty Thomsen (Richard); and his beloved companion, Paulette Bryant.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 22, 2025, at Fort Borst Park (Kitchen 1) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (2020 Borst Ave., Centralia, WA 98531). Please come celebrate and bring your favorite stories of “The Bear.”
