Marilyn J KELM

Marilyn Jean Nicoson Kelm was born on July 7, 1930 in Sycamore, Illinois, the daughter of Jeff and
Dorothy Nicoson, and sister to Jack and Karen (Randleman) - all of whom helped shape the woman we
cherish. She left this world surrounded by love on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Marilyn built her life around what mattered most to her: family. United with her husband, Kenny, on
January 24, 1948, she nurtured not just a home, but a legacy - a strong, deeply rooted family tree that
grew and flourished right in the heart of her community.

Together, Marilyn and Kenny raised a beautiful family that has since blossomed into five generations.
Their family began with 7 children: Jane Glendenning (Jack), Linda Amsberg, Ken Kelm (Sandy), Jeff
Kelm (Lyddia), Ronnie Kelm (Candy), Judy Mattli (Bill), and Todd Kelm (Patricia). She was the proud
grandmother of 15 grandchildren and their spouses, great-grandmother to 41 great-grandchildren (11 of
whom are now married), and the great-great-grandmother of 20 little ones who will carry on her love,
memories, and skill in the kitchen.

Family gatherings were her favorite kind of celebration - loud, loving, a little chaotic, and always full of
laughter, conversation, and good food. Her presence was a force - steady, dependable, and comforting.
Through the years, she created not just a family, but a close-knit community bound by prayer, resilience,
and a strong sense of togetherness as an involved member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

We will miss her stories, her hugs, her wit, and her pie crust and bread. But more than anything, we're
grateful - for the roots she planted, the branches she nurtured, the love that will continue to grow
because of her, and the knowledge that she is walking arm in arm with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Marilyn to her family.

They will be establishing a fund that they will later use to honor her memory in a special way.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Marilyn J KELM, please click here to visit our sympathy store.