PEORIA, Ill. — Local historian and well-known writer Norm Kelly passed away Tuesday, August 4 after a battle with cancer. He was 88.
Kelly wrote a number of books about Peoria history, hundreds of short stories, many articles and appeared on the radio over the years.
Author and historian Ken Zurski shared his thoughts on Kelly’s passing with WMBD News.
“He loved this city and it will be a big loss. But, the good thing is with his books and his stories, he’s left a lasting legacy,” Zurski said.
Zurski said Kelly at times would right about history with his own personal antidotes.
“He’d write about how he remembered that, or as a child he watched this. But, not historical perspective, but also from a historical eye,” Zurski said.
Kelly was a graduate of Peoria’s Woodruff High School and Bradley University. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
Kelly very passionate about honoring veterans and those that gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Kelly spearheaded local memorial projects including adding a plaque near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument at the Peoria County Courthouse in downtown Peoria.
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