M.G. Daly Funeral Home Ltd. Maynooth, Ontario

 October 31, 1957 - March 17, 2025

Christopher James Kelly passed away peacefully at the Bancroft North Hastings Hospice on March 17^th, after a lengthy and spirited battle with cancer. 

Chris is survived by his loving partner, Pauline (McMahon) Gallacher. Throughout their years, Chris' passionate love of her was matched by her equally devoted attention. Teddy, his faithful canine companion, is also experiencing the loss. Chris will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and friends. 

Chris was the middle son of the late Barclay (1975) and Veronica (Laginski) Kelly (2015). 

Chris is survived by his sister-in-law, Helen (McMahon) Maika and brother-in-law Desmond. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Diane (McMahon) Prince. He is survived by his siblings: Ethel (late Dennis) Albertini, Carmel (David) Rumleskie, Michael (Anne Foran), Paul (Rosemary Giamberardino), Peter (late Susan McNamara), Gregory (Lee Gorgerat), D'Arcy (Stacey Johnston), Grace (Paul) Dresch, Sean, and Maureen.  

Chris embraced a career in auto mechanics after graduating from high school. Numerous years were spent plying his trade in Bancroft, Killaloe and at his home garage. He always encouraged friends and family to maintain their vehicles properly.   

As a youngster Chris displayed a real love of music.  He played the violin at an early age and excelled at playing the drums in his older brother's band. Topping the charts was a trip down east in the summer of 2023 where he heard some fantastic fiddle players.   

Chris relished his time in the great outdoors.  Enjoying a game of golf, boating on Lake Kamaniskeg, snowmobiling or preparing the winter wood supply.  The annual “Whiskey Bay” hunt camp week was fueled by lively music, delicious meals, wonderful stories and genuine camaraderie creating great memories that will be forever cherished by his nephews and friends. 

In the midst of his cancer journey, encouraged by Peter Glofcheskie, he endeavored to increase his community's awareness and involvement in the annual Terry Fox Run. The strong financial support garnered by Chris' efforts placed him in the top 200 fundraisers in Canada for the two years he had entered.   He was so proud of how the people of the valley rallied around him. 

Special recognition and gratitude are directed towards Dr. Micayla Ahearn and the staffs at North Hastings Hospice and Bancroft Community Hospital for the tremendous care and compassion they displayed. 

Chris was generous to all people throughout his life and will be fondly remembered for his many acts of kindness. 

In keeping with Chris’s requests, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life is planned for Sunday, April 13 at the Opeongo Seniors Centre, 19 Stafford St. Barry's Bay from 11 am – 2 pm. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Hospice North Hastings. Arrangements entrusted to M.G. Daly Funeral Home, Maynooth. (613) 338-3259 (Condolence messages may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or visit www.mgdalyfuneralhome.com).