Gertrude "Trudee" Kelly

Gertrude "Trudee" Ann Kelly (née Neid), born on April 18, 1953, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Shoreview, Minnesota, surrounded by her family, following a courageous four-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Trudee was the beloved wife of Denis Kelly, Jr. for 49 years and a devoted mother to her three daughters: Rebecca Kelly, Colleen (Robert) Pywell, and Margaret (Chad) Noor. She cherished her role as grandmother to Annalynne and Waylon Chalupsky, Edmund and Philip Pywell, and Lincoln and Henry Noor. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Karl Sr. and Mary Ann Neid; her brother, Karl Neid, Jr.; her aunt and uncle, Howard "Ole" and Gertrude Audette; her mother- and father-in-law, Denis Sr. and Sally Kelly; her brother-in-law, William Kelly; and her sister-in-law, Susan Kelly. Trudee is survived by her brother George (Lisa) Neid; siblings-in-law Joänne Tromiczak-Neid, Mary (Bob) Lohmann, Christine (Bill) Boyd, Janice Kelly, Therese Kelly, Thomas (Colleen) Kelly, and Gerald (Mary) Kelly; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A natural-born educator and caregiver, Trudee dedicated 37 years to teaching at Sacred Heart St. John's School, Blessed Sacrament School, and Nativity of Our Lord School. During her own children's early years, she extended her nurturing spirit as an at-home childcare provider. Her passion for helping others was evident in every aspect of her life; she was always the first to offer assistance or extend a warm welcome to someone new.

Trudee loved spending time at the lake with family and friends. She enjoyed traveling and had a deep appreciation for the night sky-tracking moon phases, marveling at the Northern Lights, and sharing special astrological events with loved ones near and far.

Trudee's warmth, kindness, and compassion touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. May her memory bring comfort and peace to those who loved her.

A celebration of life will be held for Trudee on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm with the memorial service beginning at 6:00 pm at Bradshaw-Stillwater, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082. In honor of Trudee's love of color, attendees are encouraged to wear bright colors-especially purple!