In loving memory
KELLY RINALDI
(1976-2013)
It is with profound sadness and dismay that we announce the passing of Kelly Alan Rinaldi who left this world on May 7, 2013 at the age of 37 years. The shackles and struggles within his mind are no more and he is now free.
Kelly was a strong advocate for the awareness and education of mental wellness. The passing of his mother, Darcy Rinaldi, allowed this entire community to recognize the seriousness of this affliction and the impact it has on the lives and relationships of individuals. His own battle raged for years and through his death, we must strive to take up the fight and seek to overcome all forms of mental illness.
Kelly was born on February 28, 1976 in Blairmore, Alberta to proud parents, Randy and Darcy Rinaldi. From an early age, he was rambunctious, independent and creative in his own mischievous way. His zest for adventure and to push the boundaries allowed him to live life to the fullest. Like most small boys, he was very active and a distraction to his two sisters but you would be hard pressed to find a more loving and caring family. Kelly was raised with an earnest work ethic and respect for the Lord. His early school years definitely challenged his teachers but eventually he buckled down and achieved more certifications within a single decade than most do in a lifetime. He obtained two certifications in metal processing / fabrication, a Red Seal certificate in welding along with CWB Processes & Supervisor certification, 2 years of cabinet making, Safety Auditor, and Paragliding Pilot Certification. Lastly, he excelled at all his courses required for firefighting. His generous heart compelled him to volunteer countless hours to various community organizations such as the Pass Track, the Bellecrest Society, Ed Gregor Stewardship Memorial Day, Crow Snow Riders, Sole Survivor, the Bellevue Volunteer Fire Dept., and of course, the Darcy’s Nature Walk For Mental Wellness.
Kelly also had a passion for sledding, skiing, paragliding, hiking, cabinet making, clothes shopping, his cell phone, socializing, toasting every occasion, flying, gazing from mountaintops, working, his sled “Crusher” and most of all, time spent with his family.
His devotion for Melisa and her daughter Bree was immense and his love for his sisters and father is eternal. Kelly’s memory will live on and may his legacy light the way for a better understanding, greater compassion and awareness for mental illness.
He is survived by his fiancé, Melisa Tiegen and her precious daughter, Bree; his father, Randy Rinaldi of Bellevue; his sisters, Julie Rinaldi of Calgary and Randi Lynn (Brad Chisholm) Rinaldi of Canmore; his many cousins, extended family and friends; and “Crusher”, the sled that meant so much to him.
He was predeceased by his loving mother, Darcy Rinaldi, in 2007.
With acknowledgement of his and his mother’s struggles with mental illness, the Memorial Service was held on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, 2013 at 1:00pm at the MD McEachern School in Bellevue, AB. Rev. Dr. Christopher Smith officiated with the Bellevue Fire Department as the honour guard.
Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca and donations in Kelly’s memory directed towards the CNP Health Fdn, “Mental Health” program, via mail at Bag 1, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0 or online at www.canadahelps.org.
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.