Mike Kelly was a driven and accomplished entrepreneur and businessman. He arrived in Albuquerque in 1973 and spent the next five decades growing Realty Mortgage & Investment Company and fueling the growth of our community—first as a residential mortgage broker and later originating commercial financing as a Q10 Capital affiliate. Mike and his company were recognized as leaders and top performers in the mortgage finance industry.

Mike was a United States Air Force veteran who received his B.B.A. from the University of Texas and his M.B.A. from the Anderson School of Business at the University of New Mexico.

Whether for work or play, he pursued it with a passion—his attention squarely focused on real estate and relationships. Long hours spent meticulously preparing the perfect loan submission to benefit his clients were matched by long days mastering the double black diamond runs in Durango, biking along the Bosque Trail, or casting his fly line on the San Juan with his best friend Mark Yarbrough. His relentless pursuit of excellence was an integral part of his adventurous spirit and generous personality.

His relationships with family, friends, and business associates energized him each day. He easily connected with people from all walks of life and took joy in making and keeping connections by hosting and entertaining. His philanthropic spirit frequently found him supporting civic and community endeavors—including playing a pivotal role in the expansion of First Presbyterian Church, where he was a member.

Mike was also a risk-taker—resulting in spectacular successes and equally spectacular failures. It’s a credit to his grit and resilience that he not only recovered but thrived after several significant personal and professional setbacks. His relationships could cycle through similar highs and lows but often bounced back through his sometimes inexplicable force of personality.

He sought out quality and refinement in all areas of his life. He may be the only person you knew who sent his sheets out to be laundered, and we fear Whole Foods has lost one of its best customers. If there were a nicer linen, a more beautiful artwork, or a better bottle of wine, you can be certain he was going to find it and be thrilled to share it with you.

Mike shared his life with three beautiful, strong, and independent women: Ida Kelly—mother to his children, whose early work and support made it possible for him to grow his business; Jane Dillon—whose design expertise filled their life with beauty and elegance in their homes and experiences; and Susan Howarth Kelly—who shared his love of cycling, cooking, and spoiling their furry friends.

He is survived by his daughter Channing Kelly and her children Lleyton and Steinar; and his son Robert Kelly and his children Jack, Harper, and Mason. He enjoyed every moment he was able to spend with his grandchildren, and we are grateful they are all old enough to remember their time with him.

Mike completed his life in his beautifully curated home in the neighborhood where he felt most comfortable. He would surely have been shocked by his death as much as we are—as he clearly believed he was invincible. We move forward remembering the best of his personality: his diligence, independence (with a side of stubbornness that’s been safely passed on to the next generation), adventurousness, athleticism, and generosity.

We love you, Dad. Always.