John Kelly Canavan

 John Kelly Canavan, 66, of Glenside, PA, passed away at home on Thursday, March 2, 2023, after 3.5 years fighting cancer.

Kelly was born at Germantown Hospital in Philadelphia in 1956, to Doris (nee Kelly) and Hugh P. Canavan. He was raised in Glenside, graduated from Abington High School in 1974 and continued his education at Carnegie Mellon University.  He bartended at quite a few establishments in Philadelphia; the Rusty Scupper, Shippens, The London Victory Club, Waldo’s, Copa Too, Rembrandt’s, and Makers Local, to name a few, and most recently at The Blue Comet in Glenside. He made many lasting friendships along the way.

Kelly was an avid reader and sci-fi fan, as well as an old movie enthusiast. He could quote lines, and name the characters, as well as the actors, in almost any book or old movie you could mention. He was adept in mathematics, and enjoyed crosswords, Sudoku, and any form of brain teaser. He was very creative, making devices and storage pieces to suit his surroundings, and beautiful origami creations, just because he could.  He was skilled in the kitchen, and had every herb, spice, and gadget to create delicious dishes. Kelly loved to whistle, and was known for his unique sounds, accent imitations, funny facial expressions, and his sense of humor. His many friends will miss his wit, and especially his distinctive greetings.

Predeceased by his parents, Kelly is survived by his siblings, Joseph P., Hugh P., Maureen, Anne Marie Burns (Rich), and Lizanne Moran (Joe); ten nephews and nieces:  Michael J. Russo, Joseph T. Russo, Christin Clime (Tim), Jack Burns, Jennifer Jackson (Allison Dasch), Edward P. Canavan (Jenn), David Canavan, Liam Kelly Moran, Joseph Kelly Moran, and Patrick Kelly Moran; one great-nephew, Charlie Canavan, and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Life Celebration on Saturday, March 25, 2023, 11 AM, Commodore John Barry Arts and Cultural Center, 6815 Emlen St, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Cremation has taken place at Kelly’s request.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Project H.O.M.E., 1515 Fairmount Avenue, Phila., PA 19130 would be appreciated.