Obituary of Delphine Marie (Bella) Kennelly

In Loving Memory

Delphine Marie (Bella) Kennelly

November 1936 – March 2024

“Time is a dressmaker specializing in alterations” Faith Baldwin

Gently, Mom was escorted to Dad surrounded by family at her Kootenay Street Village residence on Holy Thursday.

Mom was born and raised in Fernie alongside her siblings and 2 nieces (Rita & Peg); the 13^th child of John and Nellie Bella. She had a passion for music, a gifted pianist and vocalist. Mom was a longtime organist at Holy Family Parish, as well as, an enthusiastic participant in school plays and church socials. It’s at a youth church social in Fernie she met her forever love & partner, Jim Kennelly.

After graduating high school early and waiting to be old enough to leave home, Mom worked at Trites-Wood Department Store before leaving for Edmonton to pursue Secretarial School and a career with Trans Canada Airlines and Schlumberger, before Dad popped the question! They began their life & forever home in Cranbrook beginning in October of 1957. Their journey began with Mom always alongside Dad as he pursued his career working with his father and brothers in several family business and Mom as a stay-at-home Mom.

Together the common threads of faith, family, friendships, community & service guided the family.  Kindness, wisdom and love help meet several challenges and achievements. Both Mom & Dad were generous in sharing their time, especially with children. Later in life many called Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa. Something that made both smile from ear to ear.

Mom despite being busy at home found time to volunteer as Sister Ralph’s pianist at St. Mary’s School. Mom was an active volunteer throughout the years. Wrapping presents during the holidays for the Cancer Society, assisting with elections, working with the Chamber of Commerce as a Chum, serving on the Hospital Auxiliary Board, working at the Hospital Thrift Store, singing in the community choir, serving as a board of director for the hospital and Governor for East Kootenay College/College of the Rockies. Both Mom and Dad generously gave to Cranbrook.

Mom had an infectious laugh and smile that could light up a room. She loved to dance, sing and if there was a piano near, was the life of the party.  The holiday seasons of Christmas and Easter especially, were her favorite. Between traditions, her incredible gift-wrapping talent every occasion became special and momentous. Her famous candy cupboard will be missed by many.

Mom is predeceased by her best friend & devoted husband, Jim; sons Teddy & Phillip, infant daughter, parents John and Nellie. Dad’s parents Martin & Myrtle, brothers Harry, Pat, sister Doreen and their spouses; Mom’s brothers, Slim, Johnny, Jerry, Hank, Tom; sisters, Margaret, Virginia, Gypsy, Helen, Monica, Leona, Pat & Carmen.

Mom & Dad are survived by their children Jane (Al), Ann Marie (Laurie), Tom (Canda), Dan (Wendy), Barb (Lorne), Maureen (Don), and Mike; 15 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

With sincere gratitude the family wishes to sincerely thank the dedicated and caring staff at KSV, Dr. Katherine Wight, Dr. Wik, Arlene Bedell, Drs. Ken Brown, Daniel Hugo, Paul Rode, Rick Bednarczke, Suzanne Thompson, Teena Weech & team of Homecare Support Caregivers. Special gratitude to Mom’s warm and loving caregiver, April Grant, treasured friends Kathleen Melenka, Brian Clarkson and Ev Sternig for making Mom’s life joyful and special when family couldn’t be near.

A Prayer Vigil for Delphine will take place Friday April 12, 2024 at 7:00 PM at Christ the Servant Parish in Cranbrook.

A Funeral Mass to honor Delphine will be held on Saturday April 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM Christ the Servant Parish in Cranbrook.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the Jim & Delphine (Bella) Kennelly Legacy Fund held at the Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies.

Online at https://give.vancouverfoundation.ca/s/give?ID=a0eOL000000hqxpYAA 

or by cheque to CFKR at Box 242, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 4H8