Keith Arthur Brelia of Ocala, FL, formerly of Pocatello, ID, and Gloversville, NY died January 27, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 63 years old. Keith was the son of Dr. Arthur K. Brelia and the late Agnes K. Brelia, of Gloversville.
Keith grew up in Gloversville, graduated from Bishop Burke High School and attended Fulton Montgomery Community College. Keith lived an interesting life, including a stint as a trainer and sulky driver on the harness racing circuit in his first career, where he achieved a fine record of victories. Most recently he worked as a store manager in Pocatello, ID. He was a big sports fan who rooted for the Saints, the Jets, and the Mets. Keith had a brilliant intellect, played a great game of chess, had a wicked sense of humor, and was devoted to his cat, ‘Alive’ who he rescued as the only one of a litter of feral kittens that survived.
In addition to his father, Keith is survived by two sisters, Karen A. (Richard) Corcoran of Baltimore, MD and Kristine A. (Robert) Smith of Duanesburg, NY and Ocala, FL. He is also survived by his niece, Kelly Smith Sturman of Oldwick, NJ; and nephews, Richard Corcoran of Baltimore, MD, and Brian Corcoran of Arlington, MA, along with nine great nieces and nephews.
Keith was at home when he passed, surrounded by family. The last words he heard were ‘We will not forget, nor regret one moment of the time we spent with you. We love you so very much.’
A memorial service will be held at a later date. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Marion County, FL (3231 SW 34th Ave, Ocala FL 34474) whose professionalism and compassion were invaluable throughout Keith’s final journey.