Obituary of James Kaelin

James Clarence "Jim" Kaelin Sr., 81, of Covington, KY, was born into eternal life Friday, June 27th at his home after a long illness surrounded by his children. Jim, a member of the Lay Dominican (3rd Order) since 1952 and founder of the chapter in Northern Kentucky, was active in the Catholic community of St. Cecilia and St. Anthony Church as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, Minister of the Sick, Acolyte, Sacristan, RCIA and CCD teacher. He, also, worked in pastoral care at Saint Elizabeth Healthcare Center. A Kentucky Colonel, Jim served the US Army during the Korean War. He worked for over 50 years for the Kroger Company at various Northern KY stores. He enjoyed farming and gardening. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Marlene in 2009. He leaves his children Terri (Jerry) Muennich of Loveland, OH; Peggy (Jack) Cordray of Walton; James, Burlington, KY; Timothy, Walton, KY; Michael, Crescent Springs, KY; John, Lexington, KY, Lisa (Mike) Petrie, Elkton, KY; Thomas (Caroline), Ryland Heights, KY; Captain David (Christina)Kaelin of the US Army; Marlayna (Jason) Cooney of Taylor Mill, KY; Nicholas, Covington, KY. Jim had 18 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He also leaves a brother, Jack Kaelin of Crestview Hills, KY, and Sister Jane Frances Kaelin CDP of Melbourne, KY and a special friend and spiritual leader, Fr. Matt Cushing. Visitation will be from 5 PM to 8 PM at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home in Independence, KY on Monday, June 30, 2014. Mass of Christian Burial 12 NOON, with visitation an hour prior, will be Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church of Independence, KY with Fr. Matt officiating. In lieu of flowers, family requests gifts be given to St. Anthony Catholic Church.