On May 8, Helena lost a native son, and Montana—and the rest of the world—lost an adventurous and gentle spirit. Joseph Patrick Kiely was born in Helena on April 9, 1952, to Andy and Kathryn “Kay” Deloughery Kiely. Joe (as he was affectionately known to all who knew him) passed away in Ajo, Arizona, after an extended trip exploring the wonders and beauty of the southwest.
An avid hiker, backpacker, rafter, and skier, Joe reveled in all that Big Sky Country had to offer. His love for Montana, it’s terrain, and its people, ran deep. His love of local hikes inspired him to complete all of the trails in the South Hills, as well as the Mt. Helena area. A pillar of the Helena community, he was a strong supporter of the arts with interests ranging from ceramics, to Native American, to Cuban. If he wasn’t on a trail or camping, he could be found enjoying the works of potters at the Archie Bray, exhibits at the Holter Museum, or an event at the Myrna Loy Theater.
Joe is survived by his children, Lily Kiely and Sean Kiely. His children brought him so much joy and pride, and his love of the outdoors lives on in them. He will be sorely missed by his siblings, Mike Kiely (Sue Connell), Kathy Kiely McDonald (Ron), and Dan Kiely (DeeDee), as well as his nieces and nephews Annie Kiely Kremer (Michael), Thomas Kiely, Andy (Britt), Joe (Caitlin), and Liz McDonald, Michael Jessica and Abby Kiely, Kyle, Brittney, and Liz Tatchell.
Joe’s vibrant personality will be remembered by his family and multitude of friends for his kindness, generosity, humor, and expansive heart. Joe never met a stranger and had an uncanny ability to touch all those fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, June 18, 2018 at the Holter Museum of Art at 12 E. Lawrence Street Helena, MT 59601. with a reception to follow also at the Holter. Please visit below to share a memory of Joe or offer a condolence.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
3:30 p.m.
Monday June 18, 2018
Holter Museum of Art
12 E. Lawrence Street
Helena, MT 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
3:30 p.m.
Monday June 18, 2018
Holter Museum of Art
12 E. Lawrence Street
Helena, MT 59601
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John Andrew says
Joe was a mentor from our early grade school days onward, expounding on the wisdom of having a life plan and carrying it to fruition or least trying. I remember the time he introduced me to his friend Scott Brown stating that in the middle of winter at the U of M they were going to head to Mexico, develop a business plan and return to Helena to start an outdoor specialty store which became known as the Base Camp. Fast-forwarding to more recent times I would find myself standing on the sidelines with him in Lily and Sean’s high school days watching their soccer games, a more focused parent would have been hard to find. As life has moved on Lily & Sean remained his unrelenting focus, and as we all know he would wish all things good for the both of them. Godspeed Joe Kiely!
Frank Rowan says
Kathy and family,
Deepest condolence to family and friends during this most difficult time. Although, I do not have the right words, know I care.
Ellen Vogelsang says
Kathy, I knew Joe only distantly. Yet, he was your parents, through & through. Strong, dedicated, committed, kind, supporting. A Butte guy as your parents taught! Loyal, true and take of family. So sorry I was not able to be there. I am here for anything you need. Your folks have him, so all is good.
Desera Towle says
Dear Kathy and Kiely family,. I just learned of Joe’s untimely death from Mike Gilleran. I met Joe our senior year of high school when our two schools merged. He was kind to me and listened to my confused self, as he drove me to the bus station. I was running away from home one week before high school graduation. Later that summer he did the honorable act and returned me to my apt. I had been drinking at his house. Joe’s character protected a vulnerable naive 18 year old from moral disaster. I am forever grateful. May he rest in peace. Peace be with you, Desera Towle
Mark Teply says
I had the privilege of renting from Joe and having my office across from his in the LaLonde Block. He was more than cordial and truly cared and I remember many late afternoon talks about life and all that comes with it. Our kids were of similar age and we shared. I learned from him and he was a good man. And I know others have similar experience and he was deeply woven into the Helena community. This is a great loss. I’m so sorry for his family and friends.