Kevin A. Kelliher, of Reading, formerly of Melrose died Sunday, March 20th, age 81. Born and raised in Everett, Kevin was predeceased by his parents Elwin and Kathleen (McAuliffe) Kelliher. Beloved husband of Frances (Carrabis) with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. Loving father of Jim Kelliher of Beverly, Chris Kelliher & his wife Sherese of South Dakota and Paula Antonevich & her husband Russ of Boston. Cherished grandfather of Michael, Kevin, Allison, Brooke and Ashlyn. Proud great grandfather of Madden. Caring brother of John Kelliher & his wife Joyce of Swampscott, Colin Kelliher & his wife Adrienne of Marblehead, Mary Veno & her husband Lenny of Tewksbury and Richard Kelliher & his wife Yvette of Norwood. Caring brother-in-law of Bill Carrabis & his partner Patricia Francis of Norwood. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Kevin graduated BC High in 1957, and inspired by his cousin Henry Schlegel enlisted in the Marines, proudly serving for six years. In 1963, he joined NE Telephone and had a successful thirty-year career that started in the mailroom and ended as a regional manager. With a young family to support, Kevin still pursued his education part-time, earning a BS from Merrimack College and an MBA from Suffolk University. A highlight of his career was the opportunity to live and work in Gibraltar for three years, expanding his and Fran's wide circle of friends and igniting a love of travel throughout Europe. Kevin loved his family fiercely, and was happiest in their company. He will be remembered for his kindness and for his integrity for whom doing the right thing, no matter how difficult, was of utmost importance. Fondest memories were made with family vacations at Goose Rocks Beach in Maine and at La Piola in Volterra, Italy. Kevin was a voracious reader with a deep passion for world and local history and a knack for remembering details and dates. After his retirement, he volunteered as a guide with Boston by Foot. In spite of serious medical challenges diagnosed in his 20's, Kevin was wiling to try medical interventions that would improve and prolong his health. The family is grateful for the medical staff at Lahey Clinic who gave him a lifetime of quality care. In lieu of flowers, please honor Kevin's memory with a donation to Melrose Veterans Fund 201 West Foster St Melrose ,MA 02176 or Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970 or a charity of your choice. Semper Fi. Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Thursday, March 24, 2022 from 4:00-7:00PM. Family & friends can gather at the funeral home on Friday morning March 25th at 10:00AM prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at Most Blessed Sacrament Church 1155 Main St. Wakefield at 11:00AM. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose will be private.