Darlene “Dee” Kelch

Darlene “Dee” Kelch, maiden name Sheedy (formerly Neri), passed peacefully in her sleep at home early Friday morning, May 8, 2026, at the age of 81.

Darlene was born on August 23, 1944, in Park Falls. She grew up in the Minocqua/Woodruff area and attended Lakeland Union High School. In 1965, she married Henry Neri, and together they lived in Chicago, where they raised their four children. Later, Darlene returned to the Minocqua/Woodruff area, where she built both her career and her life around caring for others and her family.

For 26 years, Darlene worked for Inn Care Assisted Living Homes. Through hard work and dedication, she worked her way up from caregiver to regional director overseeing seven facilities. Although she retired in 2012, retirement did not suit her for long. Missing the work she loved, she returned part-time to One Penny Place Assisted Living Apartments, where she happily continued working until the age of 75.

In her final years, Darlene enjoyed crocheting, playing cribbage, and drinking coffee with family and friends. She had a true love for animals and rescued many beloved fur babies over the years. She also loved planting flowers and was known for her green thumb and beautiful yard.

Above all else, Darlene cherished spending time with her family and friends. Her kindness, warmth, work ethic, and caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Darlene is survived by her four children: Robert Neri (Diana Neri), Kristine Besmer (Musa Besmer), Richard Neri (Tracy Neri), and Russell Neri (Shannon Pack). She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, her siblings Elvin Tanner Jr. and Marlene Allen (Donald Allen), along with seven nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ronnie Howard, and her grandmother, Betty Volk.

A celebration of life will be held on May 30, at Nimsgern Funeral Home. Services will be from noon to 1 p.m., with a reception to follow from 1 to 3 p.m. Food and drinks will be provided by the family.

A memorial gathering for Darlene will be held on Saturday, May 30 from noon to 12:30 p.m. at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel and a time of sharing will be held at 12:30 p.m. with a reception to follow at the funeral home from 1 to 3 p.m.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.