Kelly Kirk Braford

Kelly Kirk Braford, 66, of Deer River, Minnesota, passed away at Essentia Health St. Mary’s, Duluth, MN on October 23, 2024. Kelly lived simply, loved deeply, and gave more of himself than he ever let on.

Kelly was born on October 7, 1958 in Grand Rapids, MN to Jay & Naomi (Seely) Braford. He attended school in Deer River, until he left the area to join the Navy where he was medically discharged. After he traveled to several states visiting family & working various jobs. He worked in the mines, at Deer River Hospital doing maintenance, and worked for many years doing carpentry.

Kelly is survived by his children, Timothy & Shannon (Jeremy Thomas), grandson, Nikaan, step-daughter LeAnn, step-sons, Kevin & Brian Fairbanks & their children, brothers, Riley (Sandy), Danny (LeAnn Nelson), sister, Coleen, nieces, nephews & his best-friend Pita Pup.

Preceding him in death were his parents, grandparents, brother, Pat & infant brother Casey.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do what Kelly would have done: lend a hand, help a neighbor, and live with quiet kindness.

A gathering to honor Kelly will be held at the Carroll Funeral Home this Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM with burial to follow at Itasca Calvary Cemetery in Grand Rapids, MN. In keeping with Kelly’s spirit, there won’t be much fuss—just good company a few drinks, and a light lunch at the Deer River Vets club.

Ride on, cowboy. The trail ends here, but the mark you left behind will stay with us always.

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