Robert A. Shelley, Jr, age 70, of St Helen, MI and formerly Oregon, Ohio passed peacefully into the Lords hands on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, due to complications from Multiple Myeloma, while surrounded by his loving wife Kathy and family members.
Bob was born on February 6, 1953, in Norwalk, Ohio to Robert A Shelley, Sr and Joyce (O’Dell) Shelley and moved to Toledo, Ohio at the age of 3.
He graduated from Morrison R Waite High School in 1971. He attended Kent State University and transferred to Owens College, graduating with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
Even at an early age, Bob showed a strong work ethic, beginning with a job as a paperboy at age 12. While in high school, he met and formed a lifelong friendship with Mike (Red) Dains, when working at Elmer’s gas station. Before his career in law enforcement began, he held jobs at Craig’s Beer Barrel, UPS, Champion Spark Plug, Hug Construction, and worked as a security guard at Conrail.
In 1979, he began his career as a patrolman in the Oregon Police Department. During his time at OPD, he assisted in developing the SWAT team, where he earned his position as a sharpshooter. He took on the roles of training officer, fleet manager and retired as court officer in the Oregon Municipal Court on April 6, 2012. During his 33 year career, he was recognized for his professional achievements, including many awards and honors.
His life truly began when he married the love of his life and soulmate, Kathy (Koren) Shelley on June 3, 2000. Bob and Kathy were inseparable, as they shared their lives and their numerous adventures together. Their interests included golf, 13 cruises with good friends, Phil & Julie Amadio, many trips to Las Vegas and area casinos, and a multitude of vacations to various locations. Almost every Friday night, they could be found at the Fire House Bar & Grill with their regular gang. His great passion was spending time and working the land at his home on his 13 acre property.
During his lifetime, he was involved in many organizations and activities, some of which include the GAF Society, GBU, German Schuhplattlers, American Legion, OP& F, and OPPA. In his lifetime, Bob was an avid runner, completing many 5K runs and half-marathons. Although Kathy was his first love, the Michigan Wolverines were a close second. GO BLUE!!
He is survived by his beloved wife Kathy; his mother, Joyce Shelley; siblings Michael (Diane) Shelley, Valeeta (Keith) Fager, Maureen King and Carolyn (Jim) Beckman; stepchildren Mark (Heather) Kolodziejski and James (Sandi) Kolodziejski; step grandchildren Brianna (Jesse), Lexie (Zak), Marky, Britnee, Kamdyn, and Willow; along with 10 nieces and nephews Brian, Brooke, Tom, Shelley, Alissa, Meredith, Kyle, Josh, Alex, and Nathan; 18 great nieces and nephews, cousins and many, many great friends. Other family members include brothers-in-law, Joseph Koren and Larry (Terri) Koren and sister-in-law Debbie (Mike) Claucherty.
He was proceeded in death by his cherished father, Robert Shelley, Sr and in-laws Joseph and Ann Koren and brother and sisters-in-law Jeff, Tina and Judy Koren, and niece Tiffany.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in both St. Helen, MI and Oregon, Ohio at dates to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Kathy would like to give a special thank you to all the healthcare workers who eased Bob’s discomfort and the special friends who were always there to help.
Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in St. Helen, MI. www.steuernolmclaren.com
