C. Ronald “Ronnie” Kelien, age 73, departed for Heaven on Feb. 14, 2023, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace Brugh Kelien Osborne and C. Dan Kelien; step-father, James “Jimmy” Osborne; grandparents, Orville and Myrtle Brugh, Elmer and Wilma Kelien; and brother, James Darrell Kelien.
Ronnie was a Christian, and member of River View Baptist Church. He formerly worked for General Electric, and most recently retired as an optician from 20/20 Eyecare in Shepherdsville.
He loved spending time with his son, family, and friends. His greatest pleasure was doing things for others, “just because”. He was always willing to help. He was a huge University of Kentucky basketball fan, loved working outdoors, playing pool, watching old Westerns and TV shows. He had a witty teasing sense of humor.
Ronnie leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 52 years, Betsy Wells Kelien; son, Coy Kelien (Liz); grandson, Will Rich; along with a host of many loving family and friends.
Ronnie wanted it said that it was his honor to be married to Betsy, and a joy to have a wonderful son like Coy.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at McFarland-Troutman-Proffitt Funeral Home with burial to follow in the Mt. Washington Cemetery. Friends visited from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and after 9 a.m. Saturday.
Memorial gifts are suggested to River View Baptist Church.