Gerald Kenelty, 80, of Libby

Gerald Garth Kenelty, 80, died Friday, April 19, 2013, surrounded by family. 

Jerry, as he was known, was born Dec. 12, 1932, to Garth and Genevieve Brouillard Kenelty in Libby. 

Jerry lived a rich, abundant life, full of wonder, humor, adventure, and most of all his love of family and friends. A lifetime resident of the Libby area, he grew up on the family homestead south of Libby.  

After high school, a 1950 graduate of Libby High School, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, proudly of serving his country. His lifetime of service to family, friends and community are his legacy. With big dreams and an entrepreneurial spirit, Jerry was not afraid to try anything which included – gypo logging, ranching, mining, and the Branding Iron Inn. With the help of many friends, Jerry and Marylin, the love of his life, brought to Libby the RCA Rodeo held at the Kenelty Ranch.

Since the death of Marylin (Billie to some, Grandma Bobby to others) in 2007, he quietly enjoyed life staying close to home, but was always tuned in to the life of his loved ones. He enjoyed prospecting, fishing, hunting, gardening, horseback riding and huckleberry picking.  

He is survived by three stepchildren, Donna (Marshall) Flynn Martin of Libby; Vicki (Bob) Flynn Munson of Lynnwood, Wash.; and Bill Flynn of Libby; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Leanne Braaten of Salem, Ore., as well as many extended family members. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marylin; parents, Garth and Genevieve; and a brother Richard Kenelty.

Service will be 3 p.m. Monday, April 29, 2013, at Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home Chapel in Libby.