Kenneth Wayne McNelly, 84, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died February 20, 2024.  Born July 12, 1939, he was raised in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh.  After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. In 1961, he met his future wife, Norma Jean Keller. They married in 1963 and settled in the Tidewater area.

Ken served 20 years as a Naval Submarine Sonar Technician. The highlight of his Naval career was serving as an Acoustic Intelligence (ACINT) Rider, an elite group that supported special operation missions. A recognized expert in acoustic intelligence, Ken served numerous tours on fast attack submarines. After Naval retirement as Senior Chief, he spent 27 years in the sonar defense industry.

Ken lived life joyfully and with gusto.  He filled the room with his energy and booming voice, always ready to share jokes, stories and wisdom with everyone he met.  His passions included barbequing, fishing, model railroading, and all-things Pittsburgh!  As a volunteer for the Coastal Conservation Association, he organized children’s fishing tournaments.  A dedicated member of the Atlantic Coast S-Gaugers Model Railroading Club, he created and operated model train displays that delighted kids of all ages.  However, his greatest passion and love was his family, especially his grandchildren.  He will always be their beloved Pap Pap.

Ken is predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Danice McNelly, and Adeline and Paul Ford; and brother, Major Gerald McNelly, USAF. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Norma; their children: Tim (Kathy), Nancy (Brian), Susan (Mark); grandchildren: Brianna, Olivia, Jacob, Kane, Cole, Ian and Lily; and sister-in-law, Hazel Reynolds (George).  Ken is also survived by great friends in his model railroading club and treasured neighbors, Lenny and Earl.

A funeral service will be held at Thalia United Methodist Church (4321 Virginia Beach Blvd.) on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 1:00 PM with internment at the church’s columbarium.  Donations may be made to the Plaza Volunteer Rescue Squad (www.plazarescue.com).  Online condolences may be expressed at www.vacremationsociety.com.

Fair winds and following seas, Dad!