Patrick Kelly Obituary, Cause of Death – Beloved Minnesota Attorney and Family Man Dies at 86
Patrick W. Kelly passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 6, 2026, at the age of 86. He leaves behind a legacy defined by faith, joy, generosity, service and a deep love for his family and community.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Patrick had a gift for making people feel known and valued. He believed strongly in family and in the responsibility people share to care for the earth and one another.
Patrick Kelly Cause of Death
Patrick Kelly passed away peacefully at home after receiving hospice care during the final ten weeks of his life. The obituary does not identify a specific medical cause of death.
His family expressed deep gratitude to CentraCare Hospice for the compassionate care provided during his final weeks.
Remembering Patrick Kelly
Patrick was born on July 17, 1940, to Bill and Hildegard Kelly in Parkers Prairie, Minnesota. The oldest of five children, he grew up on the family farm in Urbank, where he worked alongside his family, played town baseball and developed a lasting appreciation for his Irish, German and Polish heritage.
At 14, Patrick left home to attend Crosier Seminary in Onamia with the intention of becoming a Catholic priest. He later studied at St. John's Seminary and St. John's University in Collegeville, graduating in 1962 with a degree in English and Philosophy.
Although he eventually chose a different path, his interest in theology remained throughout his life. In 1968, he earned a master's degree in Theology from St. John's, continuing his lifelong exploration of faith, self and creation.
Patrick Kelly Career and Legal Legacy
Patrick taught high school Latin, English, Philosophy and Theology in Minnesota, Las Vegas and Massachusetts before earning his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law in 1974.
He went on to build a legal career spanning approximately 40 years. Patrick initially worked as a county prosecutor before establishing his own workers' compensation practice in Minneapolis and Woodbury.
His professional life reflected his commitment to justice and service. Through his legal work, he advocated for people facing difficult circumstances and sought to help others navigate challenging periods in their lives.
Family and Fatherhood
Patrick's life changed when he met Kristi Gilyard. The couple married in 1989 and spent 37 years together, building a family life filled with traditions, travel and time with loved ones.
Fatherhood became one of Patrick's greatest sources of joy. His daughter, Caitlin, was his pride and joy, and he rarely missed an opportunity to support her activities. From softball games and concerts to bike rides, fishing trips, St. Patrick's Day parades and sporting events, he embraced the experiences they shared.
As Caitlin grew older, their time together developed into meaningful conversations about life's larger questions. She admired his wisdom and intellect while cherishing the values and unconditional love he demonstrated.
Patrick also found immense happiness as a grandfather to Johnny and Claire. He loved watching them grow, listening to their stories and celebrating the people they were becoming.
Patrick Kelly’s Interests and Legacy
Patrick enjoyed gardening, reading, writing and following politics. He was also a devoted supporter of Minnesota sports teams, a loyalty that his family remembered with affection.
Time at the family cabin was especially important to him. He enjoyed pontoon rides, family reunions and making sure younger generations understood their family's history and traditions.
His legacy will live on in the family gatherings, stories, questions and traditions he helped create. It will also continue through the values he encouraged in others and his belief in caring for the world and the people around us.
Patrick Kelly Funeral Information
Patrick Kelly's funeral Mass will be held Saturday, September 12, at 2 p.m. at St. John's Abbey Church in Collegeville, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m.
Burial at St. John's Cemetery and a reception will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be considered for St. John's School of Theology and Seminary, Doctors Without Borders, or another charity close to the donor's heart.
Patrick Kelly Family
Patrick is survived by his wife, Kristi Gilyard Kelly; daughter Caitlin Kelly Crowley (David); grandchildren Johnny Kelly Crowley and Claire Kelly Crowley; sisters Jane Delfield, Julie Tallman, Barbara Driscoll and Jennifer (John) Cusick; and many beloved nieces, nephews and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Hildegard Kelly.
Patrick W. Kelly leaves behind a life marked by faith, family, intellectual curiosity, professional service and generosity.
May Patrick Kelly rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones find comfort in the remarkable life and lasting legacy he leaves behind.