Bradley J. Shelp

(ALBION)


Bradley James Shelp, age 94 of Albion, NY passed away peacefully on October 31st, surrounded by his loving family.

Brad was born on January 25th, 1932 in Medina to Walter A. and Gertrude Robinson Shelp. At the age of 3 his family moved to Albion, NY where his father had an automotive dealership. He graduated from Albion high school in 1950 and Allegheny College in 1954, where he was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity.

Brad joined the Army in 1954 and served in Korea with the Counter Intelligence Corps. Following service, he became a partner in the Albion Motor Company, a General Motors Dealership, with his father. In June of 1957, Brad married the former Patricia Moriarty of Medina and together had two sons, Bradley James Jr. and David. In 1964, Brad became a dealer for American Motors and president of the corporation. He served as county and regional district Vice Presidents for the New York State Automobile Dealers Association. Through his many years in the automobile business, Brad became known in Albion and beyond for his kindness, exemplary service, and warm demeanor. Even into his retirement years, Brad continued his high work ethic as a part time employee with Bidelman Chevrolet. Beyond a job, Brad truly appreciated cars. He had an antique car collection and loved to attend his weekly cruise ins with Pat and his close friends.

In addition to his passion for cars, Brad prided himself on serving his community. This desire to make a difference began with his involvement in the Boy Scouts of America. He was Assistant Scout Master for Rotary Troop 149 and later became Cubmaster of Pack 60, sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church. He earned the Scouter’s Key award for his service and was a member of the Order of the Arrow.

As a longstanding member of the First Presbyterian Church, Brad’s faith was a central aspect of his life. He was an active member of the choir, former chairman of the board of trustees, deacon, elder, and church treasurer.

Brad was a dedicated member of the Albion Rotary Club, where he maintained perfect attendance for nearly 70 years. He served as President and was a three time recipient of the Paul Harris award.

Brad’s desire to make a difference in his community was evident through his work with numerous organizations, including the Oak Orchard Sail and Power Squadron, Orleans County Nutrition Project, Sheret Post 35 of the American Legion, the Albion Elks lodge 1006, and the Downtown Albion Neighborhood Advisory Committee. One of Brad’s most favorite committees was the Albion Strawberry Festival, where he acted as parade chairman since its beginning.

In his free time, Brad loved to fish, play golf, swim, and perhaps most of all, spend time with his family. Brad is survived by his son David (Ann); grandchildren James and Danielle (Blair) Streitenberger; brother in Law, Ralph Squire and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Patricia and his son Bradley James Jr.

Family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home in Albion, on Thursday, November 5th from 5:00PM to 7:00 PM. Brad’s funeral service will be held on Friday, November 6th at 10:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Albion. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bradley James Shelp Jr. Scholarship, c/o Albion High School Alumni Foundation, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY, 14411 or the Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 East State St., Albion NY, 14411.

To share a special memory of Brad, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com