Kelly Arthur Groulx

Kelly Arthur Groulx, 51, of Manchester, NH, passed away on May 26, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 30, 1973, in Landstuhl, Germany, he was the beloved son of Gary L. Groulx and Lorraine J. (Chabot).

Kelly was a proud graduate of Manchester West High School, Class of 1992. Soon after graduating high school, Kelly enlisted in the United States Air Force. He completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, in 1992. He then continued technical training at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. After he completed all academic and hands-on training, Kelly graduated as a Tactical Aircraft Maintenance Specialist. Once his training was completed, he was assigned to a flight test and operational base—Edwards Air Force Base, California. While at Edwards, he quickly completed all requirements to increase his maintenance skill level in his new career field.

Although Kelly enjoyed his assignment, he wanted to be part of a real-world mission. This drove him to request a permanent change of station to Aviano Air Base in Italy. Kelly’s newly acquired skill set was honed as he worked tirelessly generating safe, reliable F-16CG aircraft to support the no-fly zone restrictions during the war in Bosnia. His dedication to duty ensured fighter aircraft were mission ready, contributing to the success of OPERATION DENY FLIGHT and later OPERATION DELIBERATE FORCE. These two historic campaigns ultimately led to the end of fighting in the war-torn country of Bosnia, codified by the signing of Peace Accords in Paris, France, in 1995.

Kelly continued his demanding workload providing aircraft for pilots during the post-war OPERATION JOINT ENDEAVOR campaign. Throughout his time in the United States Air Force, he frequently deployed in support of various training exercises, including Exercise JUNIPER FALCONRY in Israel and RED FLAG at Nellis Air Force Base. In 1997, Kelly decided to transition back to civilian life with the goal of getting married, having children, and enjoying time with his family.

For 27 years, Kelly worked as a dedicated fiber splice technician for the local 2320 telephone union, where he was known for his work ethic, commitment, and camaraderie. It was during his time there that he met the love of his life, Nicol. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Olivia, before marrying in 2008. His family was the heart of his world.

Kelly will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his infectious humor, and his unwavering generosity. He was the life of every party, always ready to make people laugh, share a story, or grill something great in the backyard. He loved gaming, spending time at the shooting range, traveling, and being surrounded by loved ones. Brave, selfless, and loving, Kelly touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He passed knowing he was loved—as a husband, father, friend to many, and a steadfast patriot.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Nicol Groulx, and daughter, Olivia Groulx, both of Manchester; his mother and stepfather, Lorry and Michael Chabot of Manchester; his sister, Angela Groulx of Manchester; his stepbrother, Jeremy Chabot and his wife, Sheila Duggan Chabot, of Wilmington, MA; his stepbrother, James Chabot of Manchester; and many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, including cousins Erik Bournival and his wife Tammy Bournival of Manchester, Christopher Taillon of Manchester, and Tina Lunderville of Groveton. He also leaves behind his loyal dog, Louis, and his beloved grand-dog, Dewey.

He was predeceased by his father, Gary Groulx; his stepson, Cody Sanborn; his aunt, Elaine Bournival; and his faithful dog, Creasey.

In accordance with Kelly’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A graveside committal service with military honors will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery on Calef Road, Manchester, on June 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The graveside service will be open to the public. A celebration of Kelly’s life will follow at 5:00 PM at The Derryfield Country Club. Attendance at the celebration of life will be by invitation only.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kelly’s memory to The TargetCancer Foundation: https://targetcancer.org/donate/.