Obituary of Michael Cornelius Kelleher

Michael Cornelius Kelleher was born April 1, 1937, in Ellensburg, Washington, to James Henry Kelleher and Helen Clare Leach Kelleher.  He graduated from O’Dea High School in Seattle, then from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, where he joined the Christian Brothers of Ireland.  He taught in the Christian Brothers’ schools for about 13 years, and later moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where he was also a teacher for many years in the subjects of math and science.

 

In 2017, Michael moved to Chehalis, Washington, to be closer to family.  It was there that he suffered injuries from a fall on April 9, 2022, which took his life two days later. 

 

Michael is survived by his brothers, Thomas J. Kelleher (wife, Anne) of Lacey, Washington, James H. Kelleher (wife, Terri) of Nevada City, California, and Daniel P. Kelleher (wife, Umarlin) of Temple, Texas; sisters, Carole Fisher of Chehalis, Washington, and Margaret Kelleher of Beaver Creek, Oregon; seven nieces and nephews; and 11 great-nieces and -nephews.

 

Michael was a lover of puns, cartoons, classic movies, cars, opera, sports, and all things science and math.  He had an amazing memory and could recall exact dates, times, and circumstances for most of his life events.  He will be greatly missed.

 

The family will hold a gathering to celebrate Michael’s life sometime in summer 2022.  Interment will be in the GAR Cemetery in Snohomish, Washington, near his parents and grandparents. 

 

In Michael’s memory, please consider a donation to the O’Dea High School Scholarship Fund.

 

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