Kelly Jean Blackwell, age 47 of Rhinelander, died unexpectedly Friday, Aug. 25, 2017, at St. Mary’s Hospital.  She was born Feb.13, 1970, in Rhinelander to Donald and Barbara (Cleland) Blackwell.

Kelly was a lifelong resident of Rhinelander and graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1988.  She was employed for many years at Petersen Health Care where she was dedicated to caring for those in need.  Later, she was employed at BMO Harris Bank (formerly M&I Bank) where you would always find her with a smile on her face. In her free time, Kelly loved spending time with her family, especially with her daughter, Melissa who was her best friend and pride and joy.

She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and will forever be remembered for her gentle spirit, her caring and kind soul, her sense of humor, laugh and smile. Although taken much too soon, she touched the lives of many in her time here.

Kelly is survived by her partner, Shawn Eddy of Rhinelander; her daughter, Melissa Blackwell of Rhinelander; her special pet companion, Sophie; two sisters, Sandra (Dale Lee) Blackwell of Oshkosh, and Vicki Blackwell of South Beloit; three brothers, William Freeman of Rhinelander, Tim (Julie) Blackwell of Orfordville, and Donn Blackwell of Oshkosh. She is further survived by an aunt, Bonnie Hahn of Appleton; an uncle, Dennis Cleland of Rhinelander; and a very large extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Barbara; a son, Derek; her grandparents, William and Hazel Cleland; two sisters, Elizabeth (William) Wara and Cindy Blackwell; and aunts, Beverly Bishop and Babetta Albrant.

The funeral service for Kelly will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, at the Carlson Funeral Home with Rev. Keith Wolf officiating.  Visitation will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the Carlson Funeral Home and from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Wednesday.  Interment will follow in Northland Memorial Park.