In Memory

Kelly Patrick Baxter

Senior Photo Quote:

"The strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone"

School Activities: FFA,  1967 Varsity Basketball Team Manager

BAXTER, Kelly Patrick Of Spokane, WA, is on a new adventure as of May 8, 2016. Kelly was born in Wenatchee, WA. His family moved to Spokane in 1950. Kelly was a jack of all trades, master of many. He learned how to drive tractors and caterpillar's from his grandfather at a very young age. A job Kelly mastered. Through his career he worked for the Milwaukee Railroad, seasonal work in the farming fields of Eastern WA driving heavy equipment, semi trucks cross country, Greyhound and worked for the WA ST DOT plowing snow. He loved to be on the road. Kelly was a very happy, jovial person. No matter where he went he made many, many friends. He was a people person. There were many fishing/camping trips with his parents, siblings, uncles, aunts and a slew of cousins and friends. He was known as the "The Big Guy." His personality was enormous. Kelly is survived by his brothers: James (Shirley), John (Edie) and George; and his sister Robin (Teresa); his nephew Rodger and niece Lesa. Kelly's family would like to send a deeply heartfelt thank you to the following: The staff of Manor Care Convalescent Center, Dr. Lanie Cox and Sue Cain PA. Your TLC over the years to Kelly was AMAZING. Thanks to the Pizza Rita on Wall Street, Kelly's favorite pizza parlor. There will be a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, May 24, 2016, 3:00 PM, at Riplinger Funeral Home, 4305 N. Division St, Spokane WA 99207. Reception to follow. Guestbook: www.riplingerfuneralhome.com - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/spokesman/obituary.aspx?n=kelly-patrick-baxter&pid=179995098&fhid=9530#sthash.0mgOrlYR.dpuf

Published in The Spokesman-Review May 15, 2016



 
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05/15/16 12:36 PM #1    

Ronna Jones (Snyder)

I last saw Kelly at our Mead High School Class of '69 40th reunion at Twigs 7 years ago.  He was probably  the MOST inspiring former classmate I visited with that night.  Despite being in a wheelchair,  he literally glowed with joy---so much so that, despite us not planning to have a greeter at the entrance to the reunion---I quickly designated Kelly to be The Big Guy.  His instructions were something he appeared to do naturally:  "Just stop and welcome everyone."  Each time I checked on him, he was doing just that.  RIP, Kelly.  May it be that Heaven's gates greeted you in like manner.  Ronna (Jones) Snyder


05/15/16 03:44 PM #2    

Marc Martyn

I'll aways remember Kelly's enormous smile and laughter.


05/15/16 03:53 PM #3    

Michael Tomlinson

Fair winds and following seas!


05/15/16 08:23 PM #4    

Mike Shellito/Klassen

Remember Kelly well always smiling,he was a great guy.My condolences to his family and friends.

05/16/16 06:47 PM #5    

Charlene Faoro

Ginger Myers and I had a chance to visit with him a few weeks prior to the class reunion.  He was even with all of his health issues a bigger than life bubbly character.  He served us well at the reunion as an energetic greeter with a big smile on his face.  My thoughts are with his family and prayers for a peaceful rest except when he is greeting other souls with his contagious smile.



05/16/16 09:13 PM #6    

Ginger Suriano (Myers)

I remember Kelly well with his contagious laughter and playful prensence.  Since  he and Mike O'Connor were best of friendss on Five Mile, I spent much time with him and the O'Connor Clan.  He will be missed, as there is no one like Kelly.  RIP


05/17/16 10:48 AM #7    

Barbara Simpson/Class Of '70 (Arnold)

Kelly You were an amazing person! Sorry for all the trouble I gave you in Biology class...The Angels must be Happy to have you join their chior! My heart and Prayers go out to your friends and family.

God Bless

Barbara Simpson Arnold  class of 70


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