Larry Dean Kelly, 57, of Brownsdale, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on March 22, 2017.

He was born Oct. 15, 1959, in Austin, Minnesota. He spent his childhood in Austin and attended Austin High School. Larry married Tammy (Wytaske) at Crane Chapel on March 17, 1995. They resided in Brownsdale where they enjoyed spending time with their children and loved ones.

In his employment, Larry worked at Comforcare Nursing Home, Leighton, Meany, Cotter and Enger Law Office, and also maintained and managed apartment complexes. Larry went on to work for and serve as the president of Local 6-578 Union in Austin. Larry advocated for employees across many industries, including health care workers, various clubs, and restaurants. Larry’s passion and care for his union members served to secure safe and fair work environments for over 25 years.

Larry enjoyed woodworking, remodeling his home, gardening and caring for his yard. He was known for his wonderful cooking, and enjoyed cooking and baking for his friends and family. Larry was also able to enjoy over 15 years of camping and fishing with family and friends. Larry and Tammy spent time in northern Minnesota, including Lake Ossawinnamake and Black Duck Lake. Most recently, they established their summer retreat in Pepin, Wisconsin. Larry’s pride and joy was his John Deere tractor; it had every attachment a man would want. Larry loved his two dogs, Molly and Allie, unconditionally. He viewed them as his personal care assistants and received great comfort from their company.

Larry is survived by his wife, Tammy Kelly, Brownsdale; his beloved dogs, Molly and Allie, Brownsdale; daughter, Kristin Kelly (Micah Lockie) of Austin; sons, David (Keri) Yerhart of Austin, and James (Jessica) Yerhart of Brownsdale; grandchildren, Ella Rae Lockie, Nick Yerhart, Alishya Yerhart, and Michael Pickar; brothers, John (Sondra) Kelly of Jupiter, Florida, Doug (Karen) Kelly of Austin, and Dennis (Camille) Kelly of Austin; sister, Ramona Hazen of Harlingen, Texas; brothers-in-law, Terry (Linda) Wytaske of Austin and Rick (Kay) Wytaske of Lansing, Minnesota; sister-in-law, Lisa (Jim) Bennett of Clarks Grove, Minnesota; mother and father-in-law, Howard and Sharon Wytaske of Austin; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Larry is preceded in death by his parents, John and Barbara Kelly.

A service will be held at noon on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at Crane Chapel in Austin, with a Celebration of Life immediately following, also at Crane Chapel.