Kelly Poling

Kelly William Poling
Kelly William Poling, age 57, a resident of Chillicothe, Missouri passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2018, at his residence.
Kelly was born to Gene and Mary (Gamba) Poling in Omaha, Nebraska on August 29, 1961. He graduated from Northwest High School in Omaha, Nebraska in 1979. After graduating high school he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals but chose to continue his education and pitching at the collegiate level. He pitched at Hutchinson Junior College and then moved on to pitch for the University of Arkansas. After a shoulder injury, he returned to Nebraska where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska. After turning his attention to his art, he spent time in Las Vegas, Nevada where he has works displayed in Palace Station and MGM.
It was through the love of being on the water that he met his wife, Angela Rae Gabel, of 23 years. They married on August 26, 1995, in Monett, Missouri. The couple welcomed the arrival of their son, Gabriel Flynn in February of 1997. They moved to Chillicothe, Missouri in November of 1997 and welcomed their daughter, McKenna Katherine in July 2000. It was in Chillicothe they opened Original Artworks by Kelly in March of 1998 displaying his fine artwork. Best known for being a prominent muralist in the Midwest, he completed 61 murals in 20 years. It was his ability to paint his grand artworks that really captivated viewers and made him a celebrated artist. Kelly was a giant of a man in many ways, not just because of his stature. While he made big and beautiful paintings, he was big, also, in his generosity, kindness, and service to the community.
Kelly was an active member of the United Methodist Church of Chillicothe for 20 years. Over the years he served on the boards of the Grand River Historical Society, Chillicothe Main Street, and the Mudcats. He served as a consultant to many organizations regarding design. He received multiple awards over the years, but was most proud of his Design Award and Outstanding Personal Community Service Award. There is no way that a few short paragraphs can encompass Kelly's talents and activities. He coached his children in Green Hills Soccer, as well as the Summer Playground Association Baseball and Softball Programs. He led by example and lived his life by the Golden Rule. His children saw a phenomenal work ethic in their father but most importantly saw him helping others and giving of his time and talents. All those that had the opportunity to experience his heart are surely better human beings because of his love.
Kelly was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Floyd and Estelle Gabel; his grandparents, Jerome and Regina Gamba, Stella Gamba, Thelma Gamba, Virgil and Marjorie Poling, Donna Poling; two sisters-in-law, Melody Gabel and Cynthia Gabel; one brother-in-law, Boyd Gabel; and many beloved aunts and uncles. He leaves behind the love of his life, Angela, and his two precious children, Gabriel and McKenna; his parents, Gene and Mary Poling; brother and sister-in-law, Kevin and Susan Poling; sister and brother-in-law, Kim and Ron Kinney; sister-in-law, Gloria Warren; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gerry and Pam Gabel; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lisa and Tripp Allen. He is also survived by nieces and nephews, Traci (Ian) Kinney, Sabrina Kinney, Courtney Poling, Jackson Poling,  Adam (Melanie) Warren, Christopher (Libby) Warren, Jessica (Jason) Johnston, Brett (Cori) Gabel, Brooke (Brandon) Rutstein, Bradee (Danish) Gabel, Maddison Gabel, Kacy Sager, Craig Sager, Krista (Michael) Storey. He is also survived by many beloved aunts, uncles and 10 great nieces and nephews.
He served the Lord, first and foremost, especially reflected through his kindness and gentle spirit. He never missed his children's activities, whether through sports, academics, or church. His pride over their level of kindness was why he considered himself successful. He was full of life, love and laughter. He was always smiling and embracing everyone within reach with those big bear hugs. He also had a tremendous inner strength that was grounded within his faith.
Funeral services will be held at the United Methodist Church, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Friday, December 7, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. The family is requesting colorful attire for the funeral. A scheduled visitation will be held at the United Methodist Church, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Thursday, December 6, 2018, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friends may call at the Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Thursday, December 6, 2018, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Burial will be held at Edgewood Cemetery, Chillicothe, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to the Main Street Organization of Chillicothe and may be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 47, Chillicothe, Missouri 64601. Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com .
Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.