John J. Kelliher, 96, Of Belmont, formerly of Watertown & Cambridge passed away on March 3, 2009 at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge. He was the beloved husband of Marie M. (Mullen) Kelliher, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage.

Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Dennis & Julia Kelliher of Cambridge. He was a retired civilian employee of the Cambridge Police Department. Late US Army Veteran of WWII, where he was a member of the 407th Antiaircraft Artillary Gun Battalion.

John was the devoted father of John, Jr. & his wife Patricia of Newton, William Kelliher & his partner Virginia Cestaro of Belmont, Christopher Kelliher & his wife Janice of Belmont, and Mary Blake & her husband Kevin of Norwood. Brother of the late Julia Connolly & Catherine Kelliher. Loving grandfather of Elizabeth, Kevin, Andrew & Julia Kelliher. Also survived by many nieces & nephews.

Mr. Kelliher’s funeral will be held from the STANTON FUNERAL HOME, 786 Mt. Auburn St. (Rt. 16), Watertown on Saturday at 8 AM. Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of Saint Luke, Belmont at 9 AM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Friday from 4-8 PM. Interment Mount Auburn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory to Church of St. Luke, 132 Lexington St., Belmont, MA 02478 would be appreciated.