Patrick Charles Kelly

Patrick Charles Kelly
December 19, 1961 – October 28, 2026

Patrick Charles Kelly, 64, was lovingly supported by family throughout his final days. He passed away at home on October 28th, 2026. A memorial service will be held on Saturday October 31st, 2026, at 11:30 am at Engage Church (4209 Old Red TRL NW, Mandan, ND 58554). For those who cannot attend in person, Engage Church will be live streaming the service on their YouTube channel (link provided below).

Pat was born on December 19, 1961, in Jamestown, ND, to Ronald Kelly and Ardelle (Kelly) Walker. He spent his childhood in Jamestown, ND and Fergus Falls, MN. A 1979 graduate of Jamestown High School, Pat went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Valley City State College and a master's degree in business management from the University of Mary. He started his career at the Barnes County Courthouse and ended it working at Job Service North Dakota.

In 1986, Pat married Tammy (Frey) in Jamestown, ND. They bought their first home in Luverne, ND. Job opportunities lead them to Devils Lake, ND, Valley City, ND and finally to Mandan, ND where they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and a deep devotion to family.

Pat was blessed with two daughters who eagerly joined him in many activities. He was a devoted father who rarely missed a sporting event, concert, recital, or activity. Family members still smile remembering how he napped through piano recitals, only to awaken to watch his daughters perform. Pat had a special gift for parenting. He gave his daughters the freedom to experience life, learn from their mistakes, and find their own path, while always standing nearby with steady advice, unwavering support, and a willingness to help with whatever challenges came their way.

Pat's role as "Grandpy" was one he cherished deeply. His grandsons adored him, and some of their most treasured memories were the Sundays spent together. Each week, Pat and Tammy would take Liam and Ryler to church and then spend the day together. Those afternoons were filled with basketball games, baseball, four-wheeler rides, board games, laughter, and endless fun. His grandsons knew they were intensely loved, and Pat found great joy simply being with them, watching them grow, and sharing in their adventures. One of the greatest blessings in his final months was the arrival of his grandson, Oliver. At just six months old, Oliver brought a special kind of joy into his grandpa’s life, filling even the hardest days with moments of happiness. Listening to Oliver’s sweet giggles was a reminder that even amid life’s hardest battles, there was still so much love and joy to be found.

Pat was a generous and giving man who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He enjoyed volunteering at church and giving his time to help others, reflecting the generosity that guided his life. He had a chivalrous spirit and a way of making others feel cared for. His fun-loving personality and wonderful sense of humor brought laughter to those around him. An adventure seeker and true sportsman, Pat loved the outdoors and sharing those experiences with the people he loved. Hunting, fishing, annual motorcycle trips, camping adventures, and time spent with family and friends were among his greatest joys. These traditions were about far more than the activities themselves; they were opportunities to create lasting memories, share stories, strengthen friendships, and enjoy the laughter and togetherness that made life so special.

As he faced the challenges that came with his illness, Pat never lost his faith. His faith was a source of strength and comfort throughout his journey, and he remained steadfast in his trust in God. He held firmly to God's promises and found peace in the assurance of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Throughout his cancer journey, Pat was lovingly cared for by his wife, Tammy, whose devotion, selflessness and positivity never wavered. She faithfully accompanied him to every appointment, traveled with him numerous times to MD Anderson in Houston, and learned the complex skills required to care for him at home. To devote herself fully to his care, Tammy stepped away from her teaching career and became his full-time caregiver. Her love, strength, and dedication provided comfort and support throughout every stage of his journey and reflected the deep love they shared.

More than anything, Pat will be remembered for the love he gave so freely, the kindness he showed to others, the laughter he brought to every gathering, and the devotion he had for his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories, traditions, and lessons he leaves behind will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Pat is survived by his wife Tammy; his daughters Nicole (Robert) McCormick and Jayme Kelly; his grandsons: Damian McCormick (23), Liam McCormick (9), Ryler McCormick (7) and Oliver Kelly (6 months); his sister Tracy (Randy) Neva; his brothers Joe (Laurel) Kelly and Mark (Linda) Kelly; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews.

Pat is reunited in heaven with his mother Ardelle Walker, father Ronald Kelly, stepfather Bob Walker and father-in-law Kenneth Frey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a plant, which the family may keep and enjoy in remembrance of Pat.

Live Stream Link: https://youtube.com/@engagechurchmandan9783?si=8qMjhRHgu35AqQNu