Otto George Kelm

Otto George Kelm, 89, of Columbia Heights MN died January 1, 2025 at J.A. Wedum Hospice with family by his side.

Otto was born November 10, 1935 to George and Ella Kelm.  He and his four sisters grew up on a farm outside of Waterville MN.

He is survived by his wife, Doris Kelm, as well as daughters Jonell Kelm, Julie Taffe (Rick Dallum), and Jodi Kelm (Steve Lindberg), stepdaugher Kim Dahline (Bob), grandchildren Katie Taffe and Wyatt Lindberg.

He is predeceased by his parents George and Ella Kelm, and sisters Adeline Schold, Inez Lamont, Alice Siebel, and Betty Kelm.

Otto worked the farm, neighboring farms, and in the logging industry.  He started his construction career as a truck driver for Jeffries Construction until moving to Inver Grove Heights MN in 1966. There he started a career as a heavy equipment operator and was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 49er's until his retirement.

After retirement, Otto and Doris enjoyed travel, with a trip to Finland, Caribbean and Alaskan cruises, and many trips with the Minnesota Gopher Women's Basketball team Fast Break Club, inculding trips to Hawaii and the Bahamas.  

Retiremant also found him spending countless hours volunteering with SACA Food Shelf and Thrift store, MN Horticulture Society, MN Landscape Arboretum, Columbia Heights beautification, and Habitat for Humanity.

Doris introduced Otto to the Minnesota Orchestra and he enjoyed all the music that they went to hear. 

Otto loved helping out family, neighbors and friends, especially if he could utilize his chainsaw cutting down trees.  He also enjoyed plants and gardening. He thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the Minnesota Horticulture Society and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

Otto and Doris loved going out to eat. They were regulars at Roman’s Cafe where they have a booth dedicated to them. Ricky’s Embers, Carol’s, Perkins, Taste of Scandinavia and Sarna’s were among their favorites for both the food and the friendships formed.

Otto's amazing smile and "Howdy, Howdy, how are you doing?" will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Memorials preferred as donations to SACA Food Shelf and Thrift store, and the MN State Horticulture Society.