Michael A. Kelley
December 21, 1946 – September 8, 2023
Michael August Kelley, 76 an Omaha attorney, died Friday September 8, 2023. Mike was born on December 21,1946 to Thomas P. Kelley and Maxene Clausen Kelley in Omaha, Nebraska.
Mike attended and completed his education at Christ the King School, Creighton Prep and Creighton University, where he was a member of the varsity men’s golf team. In 1972, Mike graduated from Creighton University School of Law. Following his graduation from law school, Mike practiced law with his father, the late Thomas P. Kelley. Mike’s law practice was diverse, representing clients from all walks of life. Mike also served as a Commissioner on the Douglas County Board of Commissioners having been elected to the then countywide seat in1984. After leaving the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Mike’s professional practice was centered on government relations and lobbying, primarily before the Nebraska Unicameral and various state and local government boards and councils, most notably the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. In addition to Mike’s legal and government career, Mike and his father, Tom, founded Clancy’s Pub formerly located at 72nd & Pacific Streets. Mike also was the owner of Zesto’s on 13th Street next to Rosenblatt Stadium before eventually opening a Zesto’s and Blatt Beer & Table at 12th and Mike Fahey Streets next to Charles Schwab Field. Mike was an avid golfer and sports fan, particularly of his beloved Chicago Cubs and Creighton Bluejays. Mike was a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather. Mike is survived by his spouse, Kathleen Doherty Kelley; three sons: Tom (Kara), James, and Sean (Katie); and seven grandchildren: Kate, Tommy, Jack, Elon Grace, Reilly, Fitz and Madailein May.
VISITATION: Wednesday, September 13th from 5:15pm to 6:30pm at Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 S. 86th St, followed by WAKE SERVICE at 6:30pm. FUNERAL SERVICE: Thursday, September 14th at 10:30am at Christ the King Catholic Church. Memorials suggested to Creighton University, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Christ the King Catholic Church, and Creighton Prep.
8 Comments
Dear Kathy and family,
Just found out about your husband mike……please know you and your family are in our prayers. You will be in our intentions at mass today.
Sending love, jackie gerard
Dear Kathy and family
I had the great pleasure to know Mike since high school and the greater pleasure to know and work with him for so many years in politics. A great and constantly engaging guy who always lit up the room as he entered. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Larry Primeau
Kathy and family, we were so sorry to hear of Mike’s death. He was one of a kind. His sense of humor could really light up a room. Glad my dad, George Buglewicz, was able to serve with him in Douglas County government. May God grant all of you comfort.
Sympathy at the passing of your Dad. I always enjoyed visiting with him at various events, particularly. the story of his father, or was it his grandfather, who changed the Irish Kelly to Kelley to avoid discrimination. Eternal rest to him and peace to you, Sean, and the rest of the family.
Deeply sadden to learn of Mike’s passing. Comfort from above be with all of you.
I’m terribly sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I was only a client. But had gotten to know him well over the years from different business dealings, and definitely thought of him as a friend. Such a great personality. Hard to find people that truly care about others. Condolences to all friends and family.
There will be a hole in the family that will be filled with love and fond memories.
Thinking of you and the rest of the Kelley family.
Love,
Lauren, Elon, and Reilly Kelley
it said Michael was a good friend and fine attorney. He will be missed so sorry to see he passed away and Prayers for his Family. I met Michael back in the days at AKSARBEN will always remember those days and the dealings I had with him in the Legal Field He will be greatly missed
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