Brian Michael Kennelly

Brian M. Kennelly, age 72 of Park River passed away Thursday, March 19, 2015 at the Golden Living Center of Moorhead, MN. Brian Michael Kennelly was born March 2, 1943 in Grafton, ND, the son of the late Stanley and Mary (Campbell) Kennelly. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1961 and then attended UND studying Civil Engineering. He became a Land Surveyor, surveying land in Grand Forks County. Brian was united in marriage to Sandie Burris in 1968 at Conway, ND. Brian was drafted into the United States Army in 1969 being stationed in Germany for the length of his service. After his honorable discharge the couple returned to Park River, where they raised their family. He worked at the Cavalier Air Station retiring in 2008. In 1994 he met his sweetheart Marie Simundson. They enjoyed building their home together in Park River where they lived until the time of his death. He was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Church, Park River and a member of the St. Thomas American Legion Post. He enjoyed playing Pinochle and also loved to visit with people. Brian was very proud of his children and worked very hard to provide for them. He also loved to spend time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. Brian is survived by his sweetheart Marie Simundson, Park River, ND; children: Sean (Marion) Kennelly, Holly Springs, NC; Colleen (Sean) Thompson, Winona, MN; Kevin (Melissa) Kennelly, Grand Forks, ND; Brendan (Dana) Kennelly, Grand Forks, ND; grandchildren: Candice and Julien Kennelly, Drew, Jack, Kate and Will Thompson, Broden, Grace, Mary, Clara, Max, Simon and Gena Kennelly, James, Lily, Leah, Rose and Ruth Kennelly; brother Stanley Kennelly, Jr., Park River, ND. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Erin and siblings: Dennis, Norbert and Maureen. Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Park River, ND. Visitation will be Monday from 5-7:00 P.M. with a prayer service at 7:00 at the Tollefson Funeral Home of Park River. Friends may call at the church on Tuesday for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at the St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery, St. Thomas in the spring.