Comments on: Extra Points: Kevin A. Kelly, 1956–2008

By: Larry Schwartz

Larry Schwartz — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:55:10 +0000

The passing of Kevin Kelly is very difficult to grasp.

Those of us who knew him were usually in “awe” of his gifts. He has the ability to observe “it all” …. There wasn’t much that got by Kevin, and whatever he observed, he usually had a perspective which would either enhance the “good” by pointing it out and reinforcing it ……or minimize the “bad” by addressing it (or not) and moving on.

Kevin’s impact on the Medical Advantage Group has been significant. As a thought leader he participated in it’s conceptualization. He was an investor, a board member, a collaborator, a cheerleader, and a friend. Kevin enabled many of the relationships which have lead to MAG program developments and to long standing clients. His example of a friendly and open approach to “any and all” healthcare leaders continues to help MAG build its non-adversarial and respectful relationships with health plans, institutions, and competitors.

Much of the advice and counsel that Kevin has shared with many of us will serve us well in the future. A great friend, partner, leader, colleague, husband, and dad …… he has been all these things and more ….. and he knew that the last two items on the list were the most important.

I ….. and I know …. all of us at MAG will miss Kevin …..

Larry Schwartz

By: Jim Haveman

Jim Haveman — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:59:19 +0000

The last E mail I got from Kevin was an “idea” of his to get several CEOs in Michigan together to plan/design the health care models of the future. Kevin was always thinking ahead…he always had futuristic ideas…he spent little time on coulda, shoulda and woulda!! He always left the door open for dialogue and had that ability to get along with those he worked with in the professional, legislative and executive branch. Kevin was loyal to his friends and in almost ever conversations we had, he worked Jamie, Daniel and Michael into the discussion….Kevin: Rest in Peace.

By: Steven Hess

Steven Hess — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:30:35 +0000

Kevin was an example to us all. And a true friend, both to those who knew him personally and to those who were anonymously benefitted by his many good works. We will all miss him.

By: Dennis Schornack

Dennis Schornack — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:51:15 +0000

I first met Kevin in 1979 and had the pleasure to work with him on many health policy issues over the years. He always conducted himself with dignity and grace. The thing I remember and respect most about Kevin’s character was his integrity. One of the good guys is gone.

By: Alexander Luvall

Alexander Luvall — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:24:39 +0000

Kevin was a truly “wholesome” person.

I am glad I met him and I am very sorry he is gone.

If you inquired of him on a subject, he thoughtfully and carefully shared with you his impressions and observations.

No short shrift from this gentleman ever. A great legacy.

By: Rebecca Bahar-Cook

Rebecca Bahar-Cook — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 22:48:37 +0000

As I read the words of those who had posted before me I couldn’t help but feel slightly envious of those who were able to say that they had known Kevin for decades.

Although I am not a life long friend of Kevin’s I have had the privelage of working with Kevin for the last few years on various community voluteer fundraising boards. He could really get people motivated to roll up their sleeves and get dirty to get the work done. His dedication and commitment to anything he believed in was awsome to watch.

I will miss the 7:30 am meetings, the cut out clips from the LSJ with personal notes attached, and most of all the kind and uplifting words Kevin would share.

Jamie, Daniel and Michael the loss you feel must be so great — I hope it helps to ease the pain to know so many of us share a little bit of it with you.

By: Si Nahra

Si Nahra — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:43:05 +0000

Kevin and I had dealings years ago but our paths crossed rarely recently. The fact that time does not diminish the impact of his passing is the best tribute I can offer. His positive approach and ability to disagree without being disageeable were rare then and now.

By: Richard A. Bandstra

Richard A. Bandstra — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:39:55 +0000

I was able to know Kevin best when, during my former legislative life, we traveled with a group to Sweden to examine their system of providing financial assistance to people harmed as a result of medical care. That was part of the contentious debate about ‘med mal reform’ in Michigan and, as usual, Kevin handled everything and everyone with dignity and grace while effectively advocating the MSMS view. Always a class act.

By: Sheila Wright

Sheila Wright — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:41:03 +0000

All the comments written here echo my feelings about Kevin Kelly. He was truly a one of a kind person. I am so honored to have known him, and terribly saddened at his passing. Kevin made those around him better people.

By: The Center for Michigan » Transformations for Two MDM Champions

The Center for Michigan » Transformations for Two MDM Champions — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:52:46 +0000

[...] after a lengthy illness. It is a deep loss for Michigan, but don’t take my word for it. Instead, read the many tributes posted here on Dome Magazine. As Dome [...]