Dr. John E. Kelly, Phd

Dr. John E. Kelly PhD, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 3, 2024, in Gilbert AZ, at the age of 70. He is survived by his beloved Suzanne, his children Julie Kelly-Smith (Byron), John A. (Sarah), and Michael (Nicole), grandchildren Kiri and Kyson Smith, and John and Maximilian Kelly. John was born on March 9, 1954, he was the eldest of Jack and Aileen Kelly’s six children, his surviving siblings include Kathy, Tom (Therese), Connie Posadny (Mike), Karen, and Paula.  His family was his pride and joy including his cherished dog, Covie, who brought him happiness in recent years.

Growing up in the heart of the Motor City, John developed a deep passion for technology and engineering, which shaped his remarkable career. John pursued his love for nuclear engineering earning a degree from the University of Michigan, while there he served as student president for the college of Engineering. His education continued at Massachusetts Institute of Technology earning a PHD in Nuclear Science and Engineering. His groundbreaking career spanning over forty years began at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque NM, where he focused on safety and severe accident analysis. John’s leadership led him to Washington DC where he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Nuclear Reactor Technologies at the U.S. Department of Energy. John played a critical role in shaping nuclear policy and guiding the world through significant events, including the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in Japan. His leadership and expertise were vital to shaping a safer, more advanced nuclear future for the global community.

Though humble, John’s contributions to nuclear technology had a profound and lasting impact. He spearheaded the development of small modular reactors (SMR) and championed the advancement of next generation reactor technologies, fundamentally altering the course of nuclear energy. His vision and leadership guided the world towards a better, and safer nuclear footprint. His influence and legacy impacted both national and international nuclear efforts. At the end of his career, he was honored to serve as the American Nuclear Society’s (ANS) President. In retirement, he was still actively involved with ANS in technology events and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

John had many passions, he loved learning different languages and practicing his skill while traveling the world and with his family. He enjoyed playing golf with his high school friends and loved to retell the story of his hole-in-one. His summers were spent at his childhood family cottage on Lake Erie, outside of Dunnville Ont Canada, a place that became his second home. Many cottage traditions were passed on his favorite being the “Lollipop tree”, he delighted in watching his grandkids discover the lollipops hidden at the base of the tree. His jovial and generous spirit brightened the lives of his cousins, nieces, nephews, as well as grand-nieces and nephews. He always added humor and laughter to family events.

His family, friends, and colleagues will forever honor his remarkable contributions to nuclear energy and the enduring personal legacy he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Nuclear Society or Detroit Catholic Central HS (27225 Wixom Road, Novi MI 48374). Please designate Memorial and specify John Kelly ’72 Memorial Fund.

Visitation Monday from 3-8 pm with a Scripture Service at 7 pm at Stanley Turowski Funeral Home, 25509 W. Warren.  Instate 9:30 am at St. Alphonsus-St. Clement Parish until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am.  Interment to follow in Dunnville Ont, Canada.

On October 20, an open house Celebration of John’s life will be held in Albuquerque NM, where he resided for many years, at Tanoan Country Club Grill from 2:30-5:00 PM.