Current Services

Kelly J. McIlvenna
02-05-2025

Kelly J. McIlvenna, age 64, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025 at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Kelly on Friday, February 14, 10 AM, at St Joseph Cathedral, Sioux Falls, SD. Following the service, a military burial with full honors will be held at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Falls at 1 PM.

Kelly was born on November 8, 1960 to Patrick and Adeline (Bickett) McIlvenna. He graduated from O’Gorman High School in 1979 and joined the Army National Guard.

He married Nancy Orth. They had 2 children, Dustin and Megan. They lived in Aurora, Colorado where Kelly owned his own woodworking business for many years. After moving back to South Dakota in 2012, he began working as a woodworker for BHI Contracting in Harrisburg, SD. He loved his trade and was a very talented woodworker. He was very proud to be part of the BHI family.

One of Kellys most commendable accomplishments was 24 years in the Army National Guard. He retired as a First Sergeant. He was very proud of being a soldier and following in his fathers footsteps to serve for our wonderful country.

Kelly will be eternally remembered by his children: Dustin (Brandi) and Megan Nalwood; ex-wife: Nancy; 6 grandchildren: Jerin, JohnnyRay, Jenae, Lyric, Jehu, and Josiah; siblings: Sherri Zuelke, Dan McIlvenna, Mary (Steve) Blau, Teresa (Rory) McKenney, Mik e(Lisa) McIlvenna and Jerry (Joan) McIlvenna; many nieces, nephews, cousins and relatives; and lifelong best friend, Wendall Leonard. He was also loved and will be greatly missed by many other friends and coworkers. He is preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Adeline McIlvenna, grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

In loving memory of Kelly, a celebration of his life will be held at the Phoenix Lounge, 305 E Willow St, Harrisburg, SD on Saturday February 15, 2025, starting at 3PM. Kelly was a true friend to many, always ready with a smile and a good story, and loved sharing a drink with his buddies. Please join us as we raise a glass to his memory, share stories and laughs and reminisce about the great times we shared.  

In lieu of flowers and to honor Kelly’s service, donations can be made to the South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery Fund.