Obituary of Matthew Kellis

Matthew Phillip Kellis October 21, 1987 - February 26, 2011 Matthew Phillip Kellis was born in Monroe, Michigan on October 21, 1987. He was the only child born from the union of Phillip Kellis and Barbara (Bathgate) Kellis. He was baptized at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and attended Monroe Public Schools. Matthew always carried a lot on his plate. From a young age Matthew displayed a maturity beyond his years. As an individual he was best described as loving. Matthew was helpful and giving of his time and talents. He showed compassion to others and lived his life with high morals and a strong work ethic. He turned his love of cars and trucks into a career being employed by Friendly Ford for the past four years. His hard work and saving money paid off when he bought his first home a year ago. Matthew paid cash for his vehicles and wasn't afraid to whip them into shape with a little elbow grease. Matthew loved the outdoors. His favorite passion was riding his Harley, although he loved snowmobiling, four-wheeling, and even horseback riding. He enjoyed fishing and was looking forward to a camping trip in May. Matthew's love of others made him a proud regular American Red Cross Blood donor, and extended to his animal friends as well. He had attended St. Mary Catholic Church with his girlfriend: Elizabeth. Matthew Phillip Kellis age 23 of Monroe passed away at his home unexpectedly on Saturday afternoon, February 26, 2011. His passing was preceded by his grandparents. To cherish his memory Matthew leaves a father: Phillip Kellis of Monroe; a mother: Barbara Kellis of Toledo; his girlfriend: Elizabeth Conner of Monroe; three aunts: Mary Lupke of Monroe, Elizabeth Santure of Temperance, and Anne M. (Michael) Gloskey of New Boston; one uncle: Robert Bathgate of Monroe; many, many cousins; three very special great cousins; and a beloved friend; his boxer-pitbull: Shawn. Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 7:30pm, Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 7:30pm with Father Marc Gawronski pastor of St. Mary Parish officiating. Private burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle. Memorial donations for those who desire may be made in Matthew's name to the Monroe County Humane Society. Online words of inspiration and comfort can be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.