Nicholas Joseph Kellen, III passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, after a courageous battle with ALS. He was the son of Nicholas Joseph Kellen, Jr. and Mona Marie Kellen, and the grandson of Nicholas Joseph Kellen and Clara Anna Wenner, and Egbert Martin Badgerow and Sara Mona Swinnerton. Born on July 4, 1960, Nick liked to joke that he was well into his teens before realizing the fireworks weren't just for him.

Nick was diagnosed with ALS in April 2023. Though the disease took his body, it never touched his spirit. He faced each day with grace, patience, and humor, never bitter, always kind. He taught us that our attitude and love can outlast even the harshest trials.

On August 9, 1980, Nick married his high school sweetheart, Dorene Louise Hanten, in Worthington, MN. They shared 44 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and partnership.

Nick graduated from Worthington High School in 1979 and from Mankato State University in 1983. He worked 14 years in the television industry. He later found fulfillment in the mailing and office equipment industry, where he held leadership roles and eventually became an owner. He retired in 2019 and spent his retirement traveling with Dorene in their Leisure travel van, boating in Yankton, SD, playing his guitar, and avoiding large crowds during the pandemic.

A man of deep faith, Nick loved the Catholic Church and lived its teachings fully. He taught Religious Education for over 30 years, mostly to high school students, and had a passion for helping young people explore their faith. He and Dorene also mentored engaged couples through the Church's marriage preparation program.

Nick is survived by his wife Dorene; their children: Justine Marie (Ryan) Smith, Katie Louise (Brett) Hunter, and Nicholas Joseph (Annette) Kellen IV; and eight grandchildren: Natalie, Nicholas V, Cade, Odin, Duke, Quinn, Dottie, and Reese.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, May 16, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church (2109 S 5th Ave., Sioux Falls, SD). Family will be present for visitation from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Miller Funeral Home – Southside Chapel (7400 S. Minnesota Ave., Sioux Falls, SD) with a wake service beginning at 6:30 pm following the praying of the rosary.

The family requests that instead of gifts or flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Association in Memory of Nicholas Joseph Kellen III.

ALS Memorial Page for Nick Kellen III