Richard K. “Kelly” Earl passed away after a brief illness on March 21, 2024. Kelly was born in Wooster on March 17, 1960, to Bobbie and Dick Earl. He was a graduate of Wooster High School. He worked at Amster Shoe Store, a family-owned business, for many years until it closed in 1995. While managing the shoe store, Kelly loved being involved in downtown events through Mainstreet Wooster and the Chamber of Commerce – his favorite being Oktoberfest.
Kelly had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel. He had a passion for flying and had his private pilot’s (visual) license.
He was a lifelong member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Wooster.
Kelly was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by sisters Kathy (Ted) McKinniss and Tammy (Mike) Hoffman. He also leaves behind five nephews and a niece – Adam (Samantha) Shank, Ethan (Tia) Shank, Kelsey Shank, Benjamin (Brianna) Hoffman, Patrick (Martin Bielat) Hoffman, and Christopher (Shannon) Hoffman.
Per his wishes, there will be no memorial service. Those wishing to remember Kelly may do so by donating to Trinity UCC, 150 E. North St. Wooster, OH 44691 or OneEighty Inc. 104 Spink St. Wooster, OH 44691.
His family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Sprenger Healthcare Smithville Western and Wellspring Hospice for the compassion and care they gave to Kelly. Also, a special thank you to the “Called to Care” team from Trinity UCC for their visits and fellowship with Kelly.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com
The Wooster High School class of 1978 sends our deepest condolences to Kelly’s family.
Had the pleasure of visiting with Kelly recently. Had a lot of good laughs. Glad I got to visit. Prayers condolences to all. Greg Massaro
Kathy and Tammy so sorry the loss of your brother, God Bless Kelly’s Family
I loved hanging around with Kelly at Amster’s Shoe store. He had the best sense of humor. Could make me laugh at the silliest things. He was a Good soul and I’m truly sorry to see his passing. My condolences to his family and friends. RIP Kelly.
Tammy I am sorry to hear of your loss.God Bless.
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember his smile and happy demeanor.
I lived on Beverly and knew Kelly from grade school on. Always enjoyed seeing him at the store, when I was back in town, and his sense of humor. My thoughts are with his family.
‘Death takes the body. God takes the soul. Our mind holds the memories. Our heart keeps the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again.’
Sharon Johnston Bennett
Kelly was my neighbor an childhood friend . We spent many happy days traipsing around the neighborhood. Thinking of Kelly brings a smile to my face as I remember good times.
I enjoyed working with Kelly at Amster Shoe Store for many years. Deepest condolences to the family
I met Kelly when my mom worked at the shoe store. Kelly was always so fun to be around. I have many fond memories.
Kathy and Tammy, my deepest condolences. I have many fun, fond memories of the times I spent with Kelly and your family when we were kids so many years ago!
Our thoughts are with all of the family as you remember Kelly. With deepest sympathy, Elsa and Dennis Boen
Kelly was a joy to every person he met or even passed. His infectious smile and his love of life will always be remembered by many. Kathy and Tammy, your “adventurous” brother is now whole again and bringing that same joy to those who look over us every day. May the fun and loving memories of Kelly and his adventures bring you peace and a good smile when you most need it.
I remember Kelly from our younger years as being very witty and fun to be around.
He assisted me at Amsters a few times -but the time I remember well is when he told me that my pick was for OLD ladies and wouldn’t sell them to me!
Rest in Peace Kelly.
My sympathy and prayers to Kelly’s family.
Kelly was truly one of a kind.
Funny and fun to be around.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.