Dr. Craig Kelly

craig kelly

October 1, 1949 ~ May 17, 2026

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Dr. Craig Kelly, a dedicated veterinarian, devoted family man, and lifelong, passionate Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born to Grace and Marvin Kelly, Craig lived a life defined by care, humor, and an extraordinary commitment to his community. He attended the University of Nebraska for his undergraduate studies, forever cementing his loyalty to the Cornhuskers, before earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Colorado State University. Dr. Kelly owned and operated Westfield Small Animal Clinic in North Platte, Nebraska, where he touched countless lives. His clinic was a place where people found not just exceptional medical care for their beloved pets, but a listening ear, a warm smile, and gentle reassurance. He had a rare gift for comforting families during tough times, and the profound impact he made on the North Platte community will be felt for generations.

When he wasn’t caring for his patients, Craig was safely wrapped in Nebraska Red. On autumn Saturdays, his loyalty to the Huskers was absolutely unshakeable. He wore his gear with pride, cheered on the team through every win and loss, and truly lived the spirit of “Go Big Red.” His infectious energy on game days was a staple of the weekend, bringing joy and lively camaraderie to everyone around him.

Above all, Craig loved his family beyond belief. He was a deeply devoted husband, an incredibly proud father, and a loyal friend. He led by example, teaching those around him the value of patience, the importance of hard work, and what it means to show up unconditionally for the people—and pets—you love. He was bigger than life.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary Kelly.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Kelly; his sister Chris Hallock,  his three children, Tina Kurtenbach, Scott Kelly, and Tim Kelly; and his six cherished grandchildren, Simon, Taylor, Ryan, Jillian, Lincoln, and Mattea. He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Marvin Kelly.

A celebration of Craig’s life is being planned, and details will be announced once finalized. In honor of his favorite tradition, the family kindly invites attendees to wear Nebraska Husker team colors or casual attire when the time comes.

In lieu of flowers, the family will designate a memorial charity at a later date.

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  1. Craig was my first boss after graduating Vet School. He was so fun and charismatic. He was beyond generous and welcoming to my husband and I as newlyweds and to me as a fledgling DVM. I’ve never forgotten him (it would be impossible) and I’ll always think of him fondly ♥️. Michelle Heyer

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  2. This is one of the hardest to comment on my dear family. I could write a book on all the great times that I shared with your husband, dad and grandchildren. 70 years’ worth is a lot of years for the luckier siblings in this world. We were so blessed to have these years to play, laugh and have fun. To enjoy our parents, siblings, wedding’s, graduations of our children and grandchildren. We laughed, we cried! Husker games and Kansas City Royals games. Our times together were some of the best times of my life that I will never forget. There is a big void in my life now as I want to pick the phone up and hear you say GO HUSKERS or did you see that play? Are you with Trump or against Trump. I loved him so much and I’m truly going to miss him. North Platte days were the best and always taking trips out with Craig to help someone in their need or to the vet clinic. I never missed a chance to be by his side. Craig always fixed my cats or dogs and one time my tom cat got bladder infection. I called him and he told me the reason he has infection was from the surgery and it can’t be fixed. Before I said anything else he said you pay for what you get.. LOL My female dog got outside and a month later noticed she was pregnant. I couldn’t believe it. He said it doesn’t take much foreplay for a woman in heat. We went to many Huskers games or watched them on TV whether it be football, volleyball, baseball or basketball. We were diehards. And the last time I facetimes Craig. He was being so stubborn and wouldn’t say I love you but after I screamed at him, he mumbled it back and one arm went up in the air as to tell me enough. Not everybody gets to have such great memories like we had. I will miss him so much but know he’s in a much better place, Laughing with Mom and Dad, Gary and Aunt Violet. Be sure and tell them I love them and give them another hug from me as I know you’re giving them hugs now. Until we meet again I love you and we’ll see you later. Your spoiled rotten sister, Chris.

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  4. We first met Craig and Karen when there were our neighbors in North Platte. Craig became our vet as well as a true friend. As fellow Nebraska alums, we share many wonderful memories through our card group and enjoying watching Husker games. Even after we moved to Littleton, it meant so much to us that our friendship continued as Tina, then Tim and finally Craig and Karen moved here too. Craig was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He touched our lives in a special way. We will always treasure his kindness, his humor and his friendship. He will remain in our hearts and be deeply missed. GBR Craig!

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