This post is intended to celebrate the life of LTC Heath Austin Kelly, age 35, as his Grandmother, Janet Scaruffi wants us to do. She also wants Americans to understand how important these patriots that sacrifice so much for our freedoms, are to our country.

The nation was mortified when we heard of the breaking story about a crazed gunman going into an IHOP in Carson City, Nevada; randomly killing 4 people – 3 of them National Guardsmen, and wounding 7 others. Sadly, for one local family, this tragedy has hit home for them. Janet’s daughter, Heath’s Aunt, Patty Angell, notified me and has sent me many things about Heath – all are included below. This post may be updated.

Arrangements
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Visitation: 8 to 11 a.m.
Service: 11 a.m.
The Vineyard Church
4340 Sal Lentini Blvd.
Kenner, LA 70065

Thank you to the Patriot Guard Riders for helping to honor Heath’s service to his country.

September 6th

Our family has suffered another loss of a loved one today. My sister, Kathy, lost her only child, my nephew, Heath Austin Kelly. He was killed by an assailant in Nevada, who walked into an IHOP and opened fire on eleven people before killing himself. Heath is one of the two killed. Two months ago, Heath became a father for the second time to a son, Tristen. Please keep his wife, Tracy; five-year old daughter, Kassidy; baby, Tristen, and mother in your prayers.

I also ask your prayers for my parents who must now bury their oldest grandson, Heath, within a year of burying their youngest grandson, Matthew.

Kathy, Julie and Tony are flying to Nevada in the morning to be with Tracy.

love,
Patty

Obituary for Lt. Colonel Heath Austin Kelly
Lt. Colonel Heath Austin Kelly, a native of Kenner, LA was killed on September 6, 2011 in Carson City, NV at the age of 35. Born to Kathleen Scaruffi and Kenneth Kelly, he graduated John Curtis Christian School, 1994 and Norwich University, 1998. He was active duty U.S. Army 1998-2005 as a field artillery officer. He has been a member of the Nevada National Guard since 2007. He served 15 months as Battalion Administrative Officer for the 991st Troop Command prior to his current post as Major of the Joint Force Headquarters in Carson City, NV a position held since August, 2010. His decorations include commendations and medals from the U.S. Army; Global War on Terrorism, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Defense Service Medal and Iraq Campaign. With an unselfish heart, he lived his life enjoying and protecting that which he loved – God, country, family and community. A man of integrity with a great sense of humor, Heath was the devoted husband of Tracy Chu Kelly, father of a four year old daughter, Kassidy and a nine week old son, Tristan. Grandson of Janet Van Hees and Louis Scaruffi, and the late Anna Mae Cronan and Robert J. Kelly. Brother of Seth A. Kelly, Sias A. Kelly (Janel), Lt. Gerald Sachitano, Jr. U.S.N. (Nicole). Nephew of Patty Scaruffi Angell, Tony Scaruffi, Julie Scaruffi Gaspard (Larry), James Scaruffi, Denise Kelly Holzhauser (Barry), Robert Kelly and Valerie Vanney. Also survived by nieces, nephews other family members and friends.
A funeral service, followed by military honors, will be held at Vineyard Church, 4340 Sal Lentini Pkwy., Kenner on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation at church from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. In lieu of usual remembrances please consider a donation to the Heath Austin Kelly Children’s Fund, which can be made at any Metairie Bank location. Arrangements by L. A. Muhleisen and Son.

WWL TV September 7th



NOLA.com September 7th article about Heath given by his Aunt Julie on behalf of the family.

RGJ.com September 8th is wonderful dedication to his life.

KRNV Reno, NV September 8

WWL TV September 8
— Maj. Heath Kelly, 35, of Reno. Brig. Gen. William R. Burks said Kelly was a decorated officer and avid student of military history who was known for his dry sense of humor. Kelly was married with two kids.

WGNO