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Kraig Kirk Kelican

Date of Death: September 21, 2023
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Burriss Family
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Darren russo
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kelly pauley
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Heather Abee
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Sherian Darr Denisar
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Christine Fincham
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Kimberly Grandy
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The FHS Falconer
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Laurel Walker
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Mary E Sites
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Elaina Thompson
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Alesia Pauley
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Visitation
Amherst Chapel
1600 Amherst Street
Winchester, VA 22601
Saturday 9/30, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Service
Amherst Chapel
1600 Amherst Street
Winchester, VA 22601
Sunday 10/1, 2:00 pm

Celebration of Life

Memorial

Memorial contributions may be made to
Winchester S.P.C.A.
111 Featherbed Lane
Winchester, VA 22601

The Frederick County Esther Boyd Animal Shelter
161 Fort Collier Rd
Winchester, VA 22603

The Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter
8180 Greensboro Drive, #400
McLean, VA 22102

Fauquier High School Booster Club or Fauquier High School FFA Program
705 Waterloo Rd.
Warrenton, VA 20186
(Please specify on your check either the Booster Club or FFA Program).

Reception
Omps Reception Center, Amherst Chapel
1600 Amherst Street
Winchester, VA 22601
540-662-6633 | Map
Sunday 10/1

Following the service

Kraig Kirk Kelican, 62, of Stephens City, VA passed away September 21, 2023 at Inova Fairfax Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born October 18, 1960 in Charlestown, WV the son of the late Jerry Lee and Ann Marie Kirk Kelican. Kraig was a 1979 graduate of James Wood High School where he receivedContinue Reading

Watch Video Tribute
Burriss Family left a message on October 13, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Burriss Family lit a candle
Darren russo left a message on October 6, 2023:
How can i express my feelings toward u mr k u were a mentor friend i also will neber forget when i shook ur hanf and walked across the stage at graduation u said "this is your frist dollar towards your corvet:
Debbie Harmison White left a message on October 4, 2023:
We have just learned of Kraig's passing and are at a loss for words. What a huge loss for the Kelican family, as well as Fauquier High School and the Winchester community. Our father, Dick Harmison, was very close to all the Kelicans and on behalf of our family, we share our deepest condolences.
Brian and Robin Dick left a message on October 2, 2023:
We were so sorry to hear about Kraig's passing. He has been a long time friend and one of our Colonel family members. We enjoyed Kraig's sense of humor and knew the dedication he had for FHS. He will be missed by so many. Our prayers to all of his family.
Sharon Robinson left a message on October 1, 2023:
Kendra, I was so sorry to hear about Kraig passing. I know how close you were. My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
kelly pauley left a message on September 30, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, kelly pauley lit a candle
Heather Abee left a message on September 30, 2023:
Our deepest condolences to Mr Kelican’s family. He was truly amazing and will be missed by all.
Shane Belzer left a message on September 30, 2023:
I attended FHS and graduated in 1994. Mr K was my AG teacher. He's the only teacher I remember that's because he was my best teacher. He got me a job in High School on a local farm. I had heard he was the principle and sent him an email recently telling him thank you for all he did for me, telling him I turned out ok, married, kids and so on and didn't even expect him to remember me. After 30 years I'm sure he has dealt with 1000's of students but he responded to congratulate me and even named people I hung out with. He will be missed for sure. I appreciate Mr. K!
Colleen Robson left a message on September 29, 2023:
Susan, Kasey & Leanne, Kaitlin & Nick, I am forever indebted to Kraig for hiring me in June of 2019 from 18 years in Fairfax to be a part of the incredible Falcon family. I had been coaching track at FHS for 12 years before becoming an AP there and I am a proud parent of two FHS graduates, Stephanie ('21) and Alyssa ('22). Kraig led with love and passion. He always asked his students, "Do you know I care about you? Was I fair?" This caring culture has been displayed in dividends since he passed and we will grieve our profound loss alongside you for the rest of our careers. Kraig exemplified the leadership we all aspire to. Please accept my sincerest condolences ?. With much love and respect, Colleen Robson (AP at Fauquier High School)
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Rhonda Sargent left a message on September 29, 2023:
I am so deeply sorry for your family's loss. Kraig, like his parents, was quite the character. He was a good man and definitely made a positive impression on everyone he met. May God give you all comfort and strength.
Sherian Darr Denisar left a message on September 29, 2023:
Rest in Peace Kraig.
Christine Fincham left a message on September 29, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Christine Fincham lit a candle
Kimberly Grandy left a message on September 29, 2023:
Our condolences and prayers to Kraig’s family. He was truly a man with a big heart for kids. Kraig had the ability to inspire young and old to be the best version of themselves. He lead by believing always, that a positive word and interaction with a young person could always change an outcome for the better, even when they had a hard lesson to learn. In the short time that I had the privilege to meet and start to get to know Kraig, I was able to witness direct interaction with students. Always a smile, a warm greeting with their first name, and a conversation that lead to what their plans were for the upcoming year. Our heart hurts for Kraig’s family and the Falcon family, you lost a gem of a human being. We are going to miss learning from and working with a genuine leader. Rest in Peace, sir, you will be missed and this year will be dedicated to you.
The FHS Falconer left a message on September 29, 2023:
With the passing of Kraig Kelican, a bright light was lost in the FHS community. Equally deep as the loss of Mr. Kelican was his impact on the students and staff of FHS, one that will never be forgotten. The Falconer staff is endlessly thankful for Mr. Kelican’s support for the newspaper, and his impact on our community is forever memorialized in the pages of our publication. Kelican was, for many students, a role model and an ear that would listen judgment-free. He was also a wonderful leader that would encourage his students in every way possible. He made sure that all students knew he was there for them whenever they needed him. Kelican would greet his students with a warm smile as they walked into the lobby doors every morning and wish everyone well come the day’s end. His loss leaves a gaping hole in the FHS community, one that is felt acutely throughout the building. Mr. K was one of the biggest supporters of the newspaper, sacrificing his own time to make the publication the best it could possibly be. The reason The Falconer is where it is today is because of his nonstop support throughout the years, from our brightest days to our darkest hours. We miss you, Mr. K, and this school will never forget everything that you’ve done for us. We will remember you by carrying on your legacy – by having a great day today, and everyday, because it is important. -David Achter, Ali Patusky, Clara Compton The Falconer Editors
The FHS Falconer left a message on September 29, 2023:
The Falconer is heartbroken about the passing of Mr. Kelican. He was loved by many at FHS and his loss leaves a gaping hole in our community. We will never forget everything you've done for us Mr. K, and will always live life by your motto: Have a great day today and everyday; it is important. Fly high, Mr. K.
Laurel Walker left a message on September 28, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Laurel Walker lit a candle
Angie Boucher left a message on September 28, 2023:
His wonderful smile and happy personality had a calming effect when need. He was always there to listen. He was an inspirational leader. To his wife and family you are in my prayers daily. I pray that your precious memories will be a blessing in your time of need as well as in the future bring smiles to your faces. Lord grant you peace in your heart. With deepest sympathy.
Mary E Sites left a message on September 28, 2023:
Saddened to learn the loss of Kraig, and sending my condolences to his loved ones. He was always a joy to me, and his smile and encouragement to so many will be missed.
Susan Bloss left a message on September 28, 2023:
I knew Kraig in the '90s as a fellow teacher. I really enjoyed talking with him about our education association's business. I so admired his passion for education. He was one who would bring a smile to your face as you approached him in the hall. After speaking with him, you felt hopeful and encouraged about education and life in general. I'm so glad that he spent his entire career at FHS and is an integral part of the school's history. My condolences to his family, the entire FHS family and his community for his loss.
Elaina Thompson left a message on September 28, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Elaina Thompson lit a candle
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Alesia Pauley left a message on September 28, 2023:
Mr. Kelican has touched many lives. You will be forever missed! Sending love and prayers to the family. “Believe, always believe”
Kylie Kennedy left a message on September 28, 2023:
I recently graduated Fauquier in May of this year (2023) and my grandfather knew Mr. Kelican very well, they were friends. I didn’t speak to Mr. Kelican because it was never necessary for me but now I wish I had. It was an honor to shake this man’s hand on graduation day.
Eric Behrens left a message on September 28, 2023:
Mr. Kelican, You truly were one of the best teachers and educators that Fauquier County had. 1989-90 Taking Ag Mechinery Services 3 and belong to FFA was great because of you, and how you cared about your students not to mention that you reminded us every day about safety and not to play around while welding. To Mr. Kelican's family, I'm sorry for your loss and grieving. He was a great man and teacher. He will always be in the heart of everyone in Fauquier. Truly my condolences, Eric Behrens Class of 90'
Carla Cruz left a message on September 28, 2023:
Rest In Peace Mr. Kelican. Thank you for everything ❤️
Dwayne and Maritza Christian left a message on September 28, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Dwayne and Maritza Christian lit a candle
Cynthia Ennis left a message on September 28, 2023:
I work at FHS and it was a pleasure to know Mr. Kelican. He always had a smile on his face and always had a kind word for anyone. He will be missed. My prayers and condolences go out to his family in this time of loss.
Eli Rittenhouse left a message on September 28, 2023:
Mr. Kelican would always greet me in the morning with the most sincere “good morning” and “hello” I have ever heard. Everyday driving to school I would think “I don’t want to be here,” but as soon as I saw Mr. K’s Smile and heard his voice my mood for the entire day changed. Even in the cafeteria while heating up my lunch, we would have a conversation about anything and everything. I will still always think of him everyday walking into school and through the halls. I will never forget one of the best people I have ever met. We love you Mr. Kelican.
A left a message on September 28, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, A lit a candle
Brandy lane left a message on September 28, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Brandy lane lit a candle
Mary Stalnaker left a message on September 28, 2023:
I was a teacher at FHS from 2002 till I retired in 2011. Mr. K was my evaluator the whole time. He was so fair and I really enjoyed his visits. I know he will be missed. He was the heart of FHS. He left his mark on Fauquier High School and he will be remembered as a wonderful leader and friend to so many. My condolences to his family. He will be greatly missed.
Esther & Jimmy Mullins left a message on September 27, 2023:
We have known Kraig since our daughter got involved with the FFA 1995. Jimmy worked at FHS as a custodian for many years and I substituted there. His love for the staff, children and parents was very obvious. KKK you were one of a kind, God has taken a wonderful angel to heaven. Fly high my friend. ?️
Tiffany Hayes (PLEBUCH) left a message on September 27, 2023:
Kelican was an amazing mentor and the emptiness he leaves behind in my heart as a prior FHS student is vast. I have strived to make myself better everyday because of his words. Love to all of his family.
Bonita Hott left a message on September 27, 2023:
Deepest condolences for this horrible loss! Kraig and I started together at VaTech. He went on to greatness where I may not have considered. Be so proud of all he was to you and remain grateful for the wonderful time you had. May God provide all grave an comfort to each of you as you grieve!
Marilyn Funk Stanley left a message on September 27, 2023:
My thoughts and prayers go out to Kraig’s family and all who loved him! I met Kraig when I worked with his sister Kendra at McDonalds in the 80’s. We became inseparable and I eventually moved in with her and her family as I went to school at Lord Fairfax and worked. They became a second family to me as I was having challenging times with mine. They just loved me and it was so wonderful being around a true family! When I ended up joining the Air Force I would go back and see them, but over time we lost contact. I was glad to be able to connect with Kraig through Facebook. I can see how much he meant to so many people and of course being the educator that he was. My thoughts keep going back to the time he drove me and his sister to Ocean City with the top down and we were belting out Madonna’s Borderline driving over the bridge. Rest in pease Kraig you will be missed!
Donna Guzman left a message on September 27, 2023:
This photo was taken last November on the football field. We spent may nights in that field during the three years I was assistant principal with Kraig at FHS. You were my mentor and above all my friend. You have the best advice and made me laugh even when things were a hot mess! You did that then and many times after my time at FHS. I have so many fond memories that will hold a special place in my heart. Once a Falcon Always a Falcon!
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Donna, Guery, Juliana and Gabriela Guzman left a message on September 27, 2023:
Deepest condolences to the Kelican family. Kraig was such an important man to so many. He left such a huge hole in our hearts. Wishing you all peace and comfort in this extremely difficult time. We are praying for Kraig and all of you!
The Dodsons left a message on September 27, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, The Dodsons lit a candle
Alicia Mossman left a message on September 27, 2023:
We are so very sorry for the loss of Mr. Kelican. Lifting his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. Love The Mossman Family
Amanda Sims left a message on September 27, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Amanda Sims lit a candle
Kenneth Hitt left a message on September 27, 2023:
RIP Mr Kelican, you were awesome teacher. You always made us laugh and cared for your students. Prayers to your family, friends and co-workers
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Lindsay Peyton and Family left a message on September 27, 2023:
Our deepest condolences and prayers for Mrs. Kelican and family. What I remember most about Mr. Kelican at FHS was his contagious smile, positive attitude, and he was just a true leader by example. We are all blessed to have known such an outstanding man and I have no doubt that his memories will be cherished & his legacy at FHS will carry on for many, many years. #WeBelieveAlwaysBelieve
Donna H. Olinger left a message on September 27, 2023:
To the family of Mr. Kelican, Saddened for this tremendous loss to your family❤️‍??. I had the pleasure of working at FHS and getting to know Mr. K. He was the nicest person and brought out the best in everyone who was around him!!! FHS will never be as vibrant and happy as it was when he was principal. The school system has lost a wonderful man…. which is no comparison to what his family has lost, as a loving husband and father. May the Lord give you peace and comfort ❤️‍??❤️‍?. “Believe Always Believe”
Gwen & Justin Lawson left a message on September 27, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Gwen & Justin Lawson lit a candle
Sharon Furr left a message on September 27, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Sharon Furr lit a candle
Eddy Hott left a message on September 27, 2023:
Kraig was a wonderful kind soul and a friend to all. I got to know Kraig when we ran cross country in high school, and had the pleasure of seeing him again recently at reunions and get togethers. It warms my heart to know he touched so many as a principal and leader. RIP Kraig. Kraig is the third runner in this picture -- taken from the 1978 James Wood HS yearbook.
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Arlene HILL left a message on September 27, 2023:
A. Wonderful educater,husband, father,grandfather, brother gone much too soon,he will be missed by so many. Love,comfort and peace to Susan,Katie and Kasey.
Brian O’Neal left a message on September 27, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Brian O’Neal lit a candle
Rudolph & Diana Allen left a message on September 27, 2023:
Condolences to the family.
The Alongi Family left a message on September 27, 2023:
Our family is heartbroken to hear of Kraig’s passing. I taught at FHS and our kids graduated from there, so we saw him everyday. He always had a smile on his face and showed he cared about everyone, especially those with special needs. We saw him at games, wrestling matches, soccer, and at every FHS event. He will always be a foundational part of our community and remembered fondly. We are praying for Kraig and your entire family and will enter a special prayer request through our church. Jesus is a masterful healer and He is with you always to give you strength and peace. May our Lord bless you with peace and comfort.
Melissa lambert/ambers left a message on September 26, 2023:
I can remember Mr.Kelican in my high school he was a great teacher he always encouraged his students to do better and I can remember when in FFA we had the kiss the pig he had one of the principal to kiss it he would have all the students laughed I will miss u Mr.Kelican may u RIP until we meet again class of 1990
Rose Burns McDade left a message on September 26, 2023:
I taught at FHS for the majority of my career, I learned from all the individuals I worked with. What did I learn from Kraig? I learned that taking a pause before making a judgment on a person, a situation or life is never wrong. Whenever I pause I will think of Kraig, and ask the universe why, because I know we still need a leader who pauses before speaking, judging and taking action. I was so lucky to have known Kraig and the universe is less without him. ?
Frank and Pam Hensley left a message on September 26, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Frank and Pam Hensley lit a candle
Connie Kimble left a message on September 26, 2023:
Prayers for the family I’m sorry for your loss Mr. K was a wonderful man I was employed for Fauquier County Public Schools and worked with Mr.k always so pleasant when in conversation with him he will be truly missed by the Falcon Family Mr.K RIP sir you did a fine job.
LeAnn Hamman left a message on September 26, 2023:
I didn't know Kraig personally but I knew Anne through playing cards with her. She spoke of all of her children and grandchildren whenever we played. I did meet Kraig when his sweet mother passed. Kraig went to James Wood with my younger brother too. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing. I will be praying for all of you as you work through this very tragic loss. My sincere condolences to the family. LeAnn Hamman
Joy Seward left a message on September 26, 2023:
Kraig was a gentle soul with a contagious smile. His dedication to the students at FHS was apparent in all he did. My deepest condolences to his family.
Robert L. Garner left a message on September 26, 2023:
Sincere condolence to the family with prayers of comfort with the loss of Craig.
Joyce Kelley left a message on September 26, 2023:
Katie and family... Bethany and I are so very sorry on the loss of your Dad. Continued prayers for all for strength comfort and peace. Aunt Joyce and Bethany
Malcolm Malvin left a message on September 26, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Malcolm Malvin lit a candle
Malcolm Malvin left a message on September 26, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Malcolm Malvin lit a candle
Robert Garner left a message on September 26, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Robert Garner lit a candle
Cheryl H Burnette left a message on September 26, 2023:
Much sympathy to Kraigs family. My thoughts are with you.
Debbie & Tim McKee left a message on September 25, 2023:
In memory of Kraig Kirk Kelican, Debbie & Tim McKee lit a candle
Thomas Griffin left a message on September 25, 2023:
Thank you Mr. K for all your support during my tenure at Fauquier. You made my time a blast. Loved coming into your office in the morning to exchange jokes. You will be missed by those lives you’ve touched.. Godspeed.
CAROL BELEFSKI left a message on September 25, 2023:
Susan, I am so sorry for you and your families loss. Please accept my deepest condolences. Sending prayers for peace and comfort.
GILMER LEE left a message on September 25, 2023:
MR. KELICAN WILL ALWAYS BE A FAITHFUL FAUQUIER FALCON.
GILMER LEE left a message on September 25, 2023:
MR. KELICAN WAS A GREAT PERSON AND WAS INVOLVE WITH ALL FAUQUIER FALCONS ACTIVTIES IN SCHOOL AND SPORTS. HE WAS GREAT PRINCIPAL THAT STUDENTS COME TO HIS OFFICE AND TALK HIM ON ANYTHING. I WAS VERY CLOSE TO HIS DAD THE LATE JERRY KELICAN WITH SPORTS AND HIS BROTHER KRIS KELICAN ALSO WITH SPORTS. HE WELL BE EXTREMELY MISS BUT WILL ALWAYS BE A TRUE FAITHFUL FAUQUIER FALCON. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH THE KELICAN FAMILY AT THIS TIME ALWAYS WILL BE TRUE FRIEND THAT I KNEW.
Omps Funeral Home left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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