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Remembering those who have left us. This obituaries page is a simple tribute to individuals who touched our lives. May their legacies endure in our memories.

Serena Keliher

10/24/1942 - 10/01/2023

Text:

Obituary For Serena Keliher

Simple Words, Written by Serena Years Ago

Serena Keliher went home to Jesus on 10-1-23.

She was born October 24, 1942 to Maurice (Mote) and Mabel Keliher. The Keliher family settled in Rapid City, in the late 1800s. She graduated from Cathedral High School in 1960. Serena was one of the organizers that build United Girls Softball field. When she lived in Arizona, she volunteered in Prison Ministry and cooking for the homeless. She also loved to play tennis.

Serena was known for always having a smile!

Survived by sister Maureen Keliher of Sioux Falls, daughter Deb Hilt (Rochester, MN), son Tom Hilt (Rapid City), and four grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her mother, Mabel Keliher, brother Maury, and brother Frank.

Thoughts from Her Children, on the Recent Years

A health cross arrived four years ago. But as she bore the weight, a beauty emerged. Happy simplicity started arising in Serena. Those who interacted with her along the way received both her trust and gratitude, and accepted warmly her amazing smile.

In these final years her innocence induced healing throughout her family. It is as if God said, \"I wish to make you light for flight, and use you to start that path in others.\" Suffering can have such unexpected results, in the hands of the One who loves us all.

So, so many cared for Serena along the way. You have shown to Serena and us how love is defined by self-gift. The work you do is difficult, chaotic, and very necessary and beautiful. May God bless you abundantly for continuing to bring His love to the world.

Thank you, Mom, for taking us on this amazing journey, and for smiling even as your spirit left your body. We shall miss you deeply, but are so, so happy for all you have given us and where we suspect you are going.

And behind all of this is, of course, the God who guides us. We see your fingerprint in this journey, we thank you for your love, and we pray for your mercy for Serena.

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Condolences

  • 04/09/2024

    My condolences in your loss of your precious Serena. I'm sure she is now enjoying her heavenly reward in heaven. I had the privilege of trimming her hair a few times at St Martins. I love reading the obituaries of the precious people the Lord allows me to do the hair of. At the stage of life they are in when I meet them I never really know who they are and what life they have lived up to that point but I try to be as respectful and kind to them as possible knowing they are precious to Jesus. In the Word of God it says "to be away from the body is to be present with the Lord" and "precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints". Take comfort knowing where your precious Serena is now. - Posted by Kimberly Houchens on October 3, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    Oh, how my heart breaks with sadness. The Lord Our Savior has gained an amazing Soul. Serena would watch me in the early mornings in the dining room while enjoying her favorite, "Strawberry Yogurt", not taking her eyes off me too long, so I could give her a smile & wave. Deb & Tom your endless caring for your mother was a blessing to see. As I left her room yesterday, I could feel God saying it's okay now, my Serena is at Peace. Much love to all of you, - Posted by Mary Ellen Grega on October 3, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    Dear Deb, I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your mother. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. If there's anything I can do to support you please don't hesitate to reach out as you are important to me. Once again, I am truly sorry for your loss, and my thoughts are with you and your family during this time of sadness and celebration of life. With deepest sympathy, Mary B Masen - Posted by Mary B Masen on October 4, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    Deb and Tom I have been blessed to have Serena and both of you brought into my life. The time for me was short but pleasantly memorable. Her smile warmth and beautiful hair are in my memories. Her journey has been fulfilled and she has reached her destination Love thoughts and prayers Charlotte - Posted by Charlotte Sugden on October 5, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    Serena, you always held the beautiful smile. Enjoy your classmates in Heaven meeting you. A hayride - for all. God Bless. Sara Horgan - Posted by irishsmiles98@yahoo.com on October 6, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    I worked with Serena at KTOQ Radio in Rapid City. She was a consumate professional and a joy and delight to work with. We would often go out after work for Happy Hour with the staff and we would laugh and laugh! She had an infectious smile and giggle. Such a lady! God Bless. - Posted by Randi Matson on October 7, 2023

  • 04/09/2024

    Serena was a kind & beautiful woman. I am sad that we lost touch when Maury passed but understand that "we all grieve differently", which is what she told me. The Keliher family meant so incredibly much to me and I am so very grateful for that part of my life. Blessings to Serena's children & grandchildren. - Posted by Donna Keliher on October 14, 2023

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