Obituary dated Thursday 2/6/1902 Minonk News DENNIS H. KELLY, Dennis H. Kelly died at his home in this city late thursday morning of a complication of diseases. Sad, indeed, were relatives and friends when told of the death of one of our oldest citizens. Mr. Kelly was born in Tuam, County of Galway, Ireland in 1818, leaving him at the time of his death 84 yrs of age. He leaves to mourn his loss, besides his wife, who is three years his junior, two sons and two daughters-Edward (Kelly), Mrs. Arthur (Bridget) McNally, who reside in this city; Frank of Sparland, and Mrs. George Dockstader of Peoria, and ten grandchildren, all of whom are living. The deceased came to Minonk 39 years ago, the town at that time was quite a hamlet, surrounded by swamps. He was always ready to lend a helping hand in building up the town or to aid it in any way. Mr. Kelly was the last surviving member of a family of 13 children. He was a faithful member of the St. Vincent De Paul Society and attended regularly when able. His last illness was about six weeks duration. Previous to this time he was up and about town. He was familiarly known as "Daddy Kelly" and was ever ready with a joke or a witty remark. He had a very pleasing way about him which not only made him a friend to all who knew him, but when once you knew him you were always his friend. He thought a great deal of the children and the children in return had a pleasant word for "daddy" whom they were always respected. Summoning up his whole life we would say he had not an enemy in the world: was loved and respected by all. His pleasant smile and hearty hand-shake will be missed by his many friends. As he has finished his career in this world; having lived more than his alloted time on this earth, he will go to that home beyond where sorrow and suffering are unknown and where happiness and joy reigns supreme throughout. the funeral was held from St. Patrick's Church in Minonk, illinois Saturday morning Feb. 1, 1902 at 9 O'clock, Requiem high mass was celebrated. A very appropriate sermon was preached by Rev. Bertram. After the services st the church the remains were followed by a large concourse of relatives and friends to the Catholic cemetery where they were laid in their last resting place. The Pallbearers were M. Gibbons, M. Mckay, M. Sullivan, Wm. Ryan, and Joe Erbland. "Wealth and glory, place and power. What are they worth to me or to you, for the lease of life runs out in this hour, and death stands ready to claim his due".

***Note 1900 census lists Dennis birth month of August and his Christening date in Tuam Ireland is Aug 14 1818. Death record and obit have year of birth 3 years later, but month is correct location of birth correct and marriage to Margaret Mulle(a)(I)n(s) located near Tuam, Ireland. ***
Denis parents listed as Edmond Kelly and Mary Connor and sponsors on baptismal record are Mary McGuff and William (Jones?).