Jeanne Kelly

Jeanne M. Kelly, 94, Dilworth, MN, formerly of Mahnomen, MN, died Saturday, January 4, 2025, in Serenity Assisted Living under care of Hospice.

Jeanne Marie Widman was born March 23, 1930, in St. Paul, MN to Severance and Marie (Harberer) Widman. She grew up and graduated high school in St. Paul. In 1952, Jeanne was united in marriage to Patrick Kelly. They lived in various communities throughout their marriage as Patrick worked in sales for a pharmaceutical company. They lived in Boston, MA for several years, raising their six children. In 1979, Patrick and Jeanne purchased the Mahnomen Pioneer and went into the newspaper business. Moving from Hingham, MA to Mahnomen was difficult at first for Jeanne, but she soon became active in the community and made lifelong friends. Together, Pat and Jeanne owned the newspaper until Pat passed away in June of 2010. Jeanne moved to Detroit Lakes, MN before moving closer to her daughter in Dilworth. 

Jeanne was a wonderful homemaker and talented at knitting and crocheting. She enjoyed playing Bridge with family and friends and was active in her children and grandchildren’s lives. She loved decorating during the holidays, cooking and shopping. When you were around Jeanne, it was like a warm hug. She had a knack for making the simple things in life, special, no matter what the event or occasion was. Jeanne was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her children, Kevin Kelly, Kyle Kelly, Brian (Jocelyn) Kelly, Molly (Chuck) Ruel, Colin (Diane) Kelly and Shannon (Mike) Bakken; she is also survived by 14 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. 

Preceding her in death were her parents; and her husband, Patrick (2010)

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 11AM in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Moorhead. Visitation will be one hour prior. Interment will be in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.