Kelly Lee Gedlaman

Kelly was born and raised in Calgary AB to Wayne and Sandra Gedlaman, and he grew up surrounded by a wide circle of friends and a large family. His childhood was shaped by a year-long family adventure to Guyana, a paper route, church youth activities and getting into trouble with his siblings, Mike, Derek, Troy and Lorie. In his teen years, it was sports sports sports, extra trouble with friends, and the beginnings of a life-long passion for music. In his early adulthood, he turned these pursuits into a foundation for his truest passion, mentoring young people. A natural facilitator of growth, he took immense pride in helping others discover their own strengths in sports and music.

In his early 20s he met and married Heidi, and had two children, Willow and Kai. Becoming and being a father was the greatest joy of his life. He created a career that allowed him to work from home to ensure he could spend the most time possible with Willow and Kai. It was rare to have a conversation with him where he didn't mention his kids, and how proud of them he was.

While Calgary was always home, his adventurous spirit eventually led him on a new chapter south of the border. He spent several years living in California and Nevada, before his roots eventually pulled him back to Calgary where he lived for the remainder of his life. Throughout every chapter of his life, Shuswap Lake remained a constant, and he spent time there nearly every summer. It was there helping his father build two cabins that shaped him into the “do-it-yourself” person that he was. Shuswap remained a consistent summer escape that he made sure to pass on to his children and anyone else that he could squeeze into a cabin.

In his professional life, he possessed a rare blend of creative talent and entrepreneurial courage. He was a dedicated self-employed graphic designer, building a successful business that served as the foundation for his family. However, his career was never static; he was a man who famously said "yes" to new opportunities. Over time, he masterfully transitioned his personal passions for sports, and music into professional pursuits. Playing keyboards and singing in his band, Forty-Five, was where he truly came alive. He was a lifelong learner, always eager to improve his skills and deepen his understanding of the world. If he didn't know how to do something, he taught himself until he mastered it.

Making people laugh and embellishing already good stories were his specialties. Above all, he found his greatest joy in the joy of others. Whether he was playing music at a deafening volume, challenging someone to a game of chess, or relaxing with a never-big-enough bowl of popcorn, his presence filled the room. Throughout all of life's struggles, his focus always remained on the people he loved.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to https://ronaldmcdonaldhousealberta.org/donate/financial-gifts/ or another charity of your choice

His Celebration of Life Open House will be held on April 11, 2026. Please drop by anytime between 1 - 4pm. Elbow Springs Golf Course, 240086 Lott Creek Dr, Calgary, AB.