Kelly Nelson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Kelly John Nelson on August 9, 2026, a beloved father, family member, friend, and one-of-a-kind presence in the lives of so many.

Kelly was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, and moved to Billings, Montana, at a young age, where he spent the majority of his life. He attended Billings West High School, where he played basketball for the Golden Bears. He also played baseball for the Billings Scarlets Legion baseball team, where he built friendships and connections that would remain an important part of his life. After graduating from West High, he returned to Salt Lake City to attend the University of Utah, earning his bachelor’s degree in Economics and proudly becoming a lifelong Ute. His education went on to lay the foundation for a successful career as a financial advisor, where he not only built a fulfilling career but also formed lasting relationships and had the opportunity to help others navigate important decisions about their futures.

Kelly was the kind of person who never met a stranger. Outgoing, fun, and genuinely interested in people, he had a gift for bringing others together. He was often the one making the connection, starting the conversation, introducing people, or simply making sure everyone around him felt welcome. His laughter, warmth, and ability to make people feel at ease left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Kelly’s love of sports was a defining part of his life. From his days as a Golden Bear and Scarlet to his lifelong pride as a Ute, he carried the lessons, friendships, and competitive spirit of sports with him throughout his life. That pride never left him and remained a meaningful part of who he was. One of his greatest joys was sharing his love of sports with his son, Kendrick, coaching him in baseball and his league basketball team. He was equally devoted to being there for his children in all of their pursuits, never missing a dance recital and always showing his love and support from the sidelines. Through coaching and simply being present, Kelly passed along not only his love of sports, but also the importance of dedication, commitment, and showing up for the people you love.

Another one of Kelly’s greatest joys was cooking and bringing people together around food. He enjoyed creating meals for family and friends, with jambalaya being one of his favorites. He especially cherished the simple traditions of everyday life, including making beignets and breakfast casserole. These small rituals, shared meals, and time spent around the table reflected Kelly’s love of good food, family, and making memories together.

That same spirit of adventure carried into Kelly’s love of travel. He was drawn to places that offered good food, great music, new experiences, and, most importantly, memories to last a lifetime. Jamaica, New Orleans, and the family cabin in Red Lodge held a special place in his heart. Whether soaking up the sun in Jamaica, taking in the music and energy of New Orleans, or relaxing at the cabin surrounded by family and friends, Kelly knew how to embrace the moment. For him, the best part of any adventure was the people he shared it with and the memories he brought home.

Above all, Kelly treasured his loved ones. He gave his time, his energy, his humor, and his heart freely. His presence had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Kelly is survived by his parents, Gary Kent Nelson and Marsha Ann Nelson; his children, Kendrick David Schell and Kai Marie Stringari (Dominic); their mother, Angela Marie Schell; his stepchildren, Rayce Rambold Nelson and Slone Skyler Nelson, whom he welcomed into his family during his second marriage; his brother, Eric Gary Nelson (Carri); and his niece and nephew, Erica Benidicta Nelson and Marcus Ray Nelson, along with their beautiful families. He is also survived by countless lifelong friends and loved ones whose lives were made brighter by knowing him.

Though his passing was unexpected, the love, laughter, stories, and connections he created will continue to live on in the people he leaves behind. His memory will be carried forward in every shared meal, every sporting event, every adventure, every gathering, and every moment when the people he brought together come together again.

He lived a life filled with people, connection, adventure, and love—and that is how we will remember him.

Kelly will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

A celebration of life will be held at Dahl Funeral Chapel to honor his memory on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

GO UTES!