Kevin Michael Kelly, 66, passed away peacefully at home in Kailua, Oʻahu on July 30, 2025 after a long battle against cancer. Kelly was an integral part of the University of Hawaiʻi for more than three decades, contributing his vision, leadership and good humor to marine technology, maritime security and research administration.
Kelly attended SMU in Dallas and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1982 with a bachelor of science in geology. He went on to study oceanography at San Diego State University. Then, in a move that would determine the course of Kelly’s life, one of his professors recommended him to a colleague at 东精影业 Mānoa. Kelly accepted the offer in Hawaiʻi, earning a master of science in oceanography in 1988.
Over the next three decades Kelly transitioned into a highly successful career at 东精影业, including as the managing director of the . Kelly’s wide-ranging work included business development for marine technology, maritime security, the administration and management of large scientific grants, and liaising with legislative bodies and government agencies.
“Many of us knew Kevin not only for his professional excellence but also for his warmth, curiosity, and kindness,” said (SOEST) Dean Chip Fletcher. “He inspired and connected people wherever he went—whether in the field, at a meeting, or over a shared laugh.”
After retiring from the university in 2020, Kelly devoted himself to the North Shore Economic Vitality Partnership, continuing his lifelong commitment to innovation and community. He recognized the need to help area residents to become more significant in the state’s economy. The North Shore Economic Vitality Partnership is a non-profit dedicated to promoting economic growth from within the region using community-driven solutions. Today it is a thriving organization, leading the effort to document and improve the region’s entire food system to maintain agriculture as an economic pillar in the region’s economy.
His impact was as wide-ranging as it was lasting, and he will be deeply missed by many, including his wife, family and many friends.
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