Colonel “Tom” Kelly age 72 of Menomonie, died of heart complications on Monday August 24, 2020 at The Neighbors of Dunn County in Menomonie.

Tom was born December 22, 1947 in Eau Claire to John E. “Jack” and Eleanor “Elly” (Hoffman) Kelly.  For many years Tom worked at the Greater Development Center in Eau Claire and at Indianhead Enterprises in Menomonie.  Tom was most passionate about his extensive police and fire department patch collection from all around the country, as well as his Tonka and fire truck collections.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his brother, John Kelly of Madison; his sister, Margaret (Michael) Jodouin of Menomonie; nephew Patrick McMartin of Fall Creek; two nieces, Meghan McMartin of Menomonie, Brenda (Erick) Kearns of St. John’s, FL and their children, Jackson and Elianna Kearns. 

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Friday August 28, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Menomonie with Rev. John Mano officiating.  Burial will be in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Eau Claire.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.

Due to Covid 19, mask will be required and social distancing guidelines will be followed.

Condolences

1. Terry Gonderzik August 30, 2020, at 8:30pm

   John and Marge,
   Just learned of Tom’s passing and you have all my sympathies.
   Hard to forget Tom and the role he played in your family. Will always remember the meticulous arrangement of cars and trucks.
   I am sorry for your loss,
   Terry Gonderzik

2. VERN CATURIA August 30, 2020, at 11:25am

   The Col. use to ride on my DCT Bus to get to Indianhead. He always had a smile and it was a pleasure to provide transportation for him. My Condolences to the Kelly family,

3. Jean and Lyle Kothbauer August 28, 2020, at 2:49pm

   John, Margaret & families- Our sympathy on hearing of your brother, Tom's passing! My mom was Fern (Kelly) Petry, a 1st cousin to your dad. My husband, our two boys, & myself visited your family in 1979. I have a photo taken at that time, plus the Kelly "coat of arms," your dad gave to me, as I was working on the family tree. Thoughts & prayers to all!

4. Lynn Dummer August 27, 2020, at 3:07pm

   My sympathy to Marge. You were a loving and dedicated sibling. I was honored to sew patches for Tom and will miss doing so. Lynn D

5. Dave & Rita Brenholt August 27, 2020, at 1:59pm

   Tom had such a strong heart and surprised us all! Hold his strength in your heart to help cope with his passing. Love and Hugs!

6. Paula August 26, 2020, at 11:09pm

   I remember working with tom out to indianhead he was a great fellow and the way he smiled always kept you going I'll miss him but I'll keep you all in my thoughts and prayers

7. Kathy Zillmer August 26, 2020, at 7:04pm

   My condolences to your family for your loss. I am Fern Petry’s youngest daughter, who was Jack’s cousin. My sister saw the obituary. We fondly remember visiting your family home year’s’ ago. Prayers to you.

8. Bill & Debbie Harmon August 25, 2020, at 8:49pm

   Our sincere condolences to you, Marge, and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

9. Nancy Steinmeyer August 25, 2020, at 4:54pm

   So sorry to hear about Tom. I was a caretaker of his with ARC. I do remember his love as patches. We went on a field trip to the Menomonie fire station and they gave him one. We also made a blanket together and my husband came in and built a bird house with him. Many good memories. May your memories help you through this difficult time. ????

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