Oliver Collumbell Kelly

Oliver and Gladis Kelly farmed 13 miles northeast of Claresholm from the early 1920’s until Mr. Kelly’s reitrement. Subsequently, the couple lived in Claresholm until Mr. Kelly’s death in 1974 at age 88, and Mrs. Kelly’s death April 19, 1984 at age 86. Oliver Kelly was born in England in 1886. The son of a thay maker, he became a coal dealer prior to immigrating to Canada around 1912. He initiall worked for the Elliott family on a ranch west of Willow Creek. Mr. Kelly enlisted with the Canadian Mounted Rifle Regiment in 1916. He married Gladis Victoria Kelly near Liverpool, England on April 17, 1918. A veteran of Vimy Ridge, Mr. Kelly was wounded in action during the First World War and received his certificate of discharge. He and his bride returned to Claresholm area and acquired their own farm. The Kelly farm was a familiar stopping place for friends and neighbors. Mr. and Mrs. Kelly did not have any children of their own, but frequently had the children of friends and neighbors stay with them or holiday at their home. Mr. Kelly was well-known for his garden and in particular, for the roses grown and exhibited by him. Mrs. Kelly was an avid pianist, bringing her own piano with her when she left England. She is well-remembered for her volunteer work and generosity throughout her lifetime, but most particularly during the Second World War.