James Donald Kelly, age 90, passed away peacefully in the early morning on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. He was born to loving parents, James and Dorothy (Webskowski) Kelly, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota on April 15, 1935.
Jim attended grade school in Thief River Falls and graduated from Lincoln High School in the spring of 1953. After graduation, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a radio repairman from 1953-1957, a period that shaped his character and values. Following his military service, Jim started a career in repairing office machines, perfecting his skills through the years and offering his services at several office supply stores throughout his career.
Jim loved hockey. He enjoyed watching his sons, grandsons, and granddaughters play. Throughout his life, he spent countless hours at the arena. Jim’s favorite pastime was watching various sporting events of his children and grandchildren, always cheering them on with unwavering support and enthusiasm. Jim also enjoyed playing cards with his good friends. He was in many smear tournaments throughout his years.
Jim is survived by his wife, Janice Corine (Johnson) Kelly; sons, Darin (Lynnette) Kelly, Brian Kelly, daughter; Tracey (Jeffrey) Sundeen; grandchildren; Jennifer (Tom) Jopp, Terri (Roy) Klipping, Brady Langlois, Casey Kelly, Mallorie Sundeen, Brianna Kelly, Nathan Kelly, Parker Kelly; and great grandson Ronan Kelly; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, Kory Kelly; sisters, Madonna Molstad, Marlene Bachlund, Patricia Huttleston, Kathleen Hume; and his parents and grandparents.
Jim was a member of the Crookston American Legion and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #873.
A funeral service honoring Jim’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Crookston, Minnesota. Visitation will be two hours prior, beginning at 11:00 a.m. The service will be livestreamed, details will be available at www.stenshoelhouske.com/obituaries/james-kelly
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