John Kelly, Mesa World War II Veteran, Dies at 101

Purple Heart recipient served on D-Day, fought in Battle of the Bulge

Service, country were Kelly's passions

MESA, Ariz. (3TV/CBS 5) -- John Kelly, a Mesa resident and World War II veteran who fought on D-Day and in the Battle of the Bulge, has died at 101.

Kelly was born in Chicago in 1921 and joined the Army in 1942. He was assigned to the 29th Infantry Division and landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. He also fought in the Battle of the Bulge, the last major German offensive of the war.

Kelly was awarded the Purple Heart for his wounds in combat, the Bronze Star for his heroism, the French Legion of Honor, and several other commendations.

After the war, Kelly returned to Chicago and worked as a carpenter. He moved to Arizona in 1956 and worked as a real estate agent. He was active in the Mesa community and was a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Disabled American Veterans.

Kelly was a devoted husband and father. He was married to his wife, Helen, for 65 years. They had three children, nine grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

Kelly was a true American hero who served his country with honor and distinction. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.