Kelley Thrun, 84, of Belvidere, Illinois, passed away peacefully April 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on January 24, 1942, in Elgin, Illinois, to Beth (Berg) and Orville Thrun.

Kelley was a proud graduate of Belvidere High School, Class of 1960, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He played baseball, was honored as Homecoming King, and served as President of the B Club. His love of baseball continued into his college years, where he played at both, Northern Illinois University and Rockford College before graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics in1966.

On August 24, 1963, Kelley married the love of his life, Barbara Schult, in Belvidere, Illinois. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family, raising two children, Kristin and Jason.

Kelley was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured time spent with his family. He had a deep love for his church, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Belvidere, where his faith remained an important part of his life. Known for his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, Kelley had a special gift for giving nicknames to everyone he loved.

Kelley was also deeply committed to helping others. He was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous and celebrated more than 38 years of sobriety. He dedicated himself to supporting others on their journey, serving faithfully as both a counselor and sponsor. He never missed a meeting and was always willing to take a call from anyone in need, day or night.

Among the many cherished memories shared by his family is a special surprise trip to Disney that he and Barbara took with their grandson, Josh, a memory that remains especially dear to their hearts.

Kelley was an animal lover who adored his dogs and cats and found great joy in their companionship.

He is loved and will be missed by his beloved wife, Barbara Thrun; daughter, Kristin (Dane) Andersen; son, Dr. Jason Thrun; grandson, Josh (Tiffany) Martenson; granddaughter Kristen (Michael Miethke) Andersen, his great-grandchildren, Emma, Maks, Dane and Sven; his brother, Jack (Yvette) Thrun; sister in law, Kaye Lale; his dear friends, Mike and Robin McElroy; his furry companion, Summer; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Beth and Orville Thrun.

A visitation for Kelley will be held Tuesday, April 14, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, located at 1045 Belvidere Rd., Belvidere, IL, 61008, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Belvidere Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to honor Kelley’s memory at Immanuel Lutheran Church or The Boone County Animal Service.

Kelley’s legacy of faith, humor, compassion, and service to others will live on in the many lives he touched.