Brenda Kelsch's Obituary
Brenda (Doersam) Kelsch, eldest daughter of Betty and Ron Doersam, left this earth, surrounded by her beloved family and friends, on Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at age 66 after a fight against pancreatic cancer.
Born in Rantoul, IL on April 10, 1950, Brenda moved to Tacoma with her parents and sister, Debra, in 1956; she graduated from Curtis High School in 1968 then met her future husband, Mark Kelsch, who she would marry on a lucky rainy day in July 1971.
Together they had three children, who she stayed home with for 11 years before beginning a career as a travel agent; she enjoyed her work in travel, where she made many good friends and was also able to visit several places around the world—often bringing family with her. Her career in travel ended in the early 90s, and eventually, she embarked upon a new career at DaVita, where she worked until 2016. DaVita was her second home, and she truly loved the village of friends she worked among; going to work brought her joy every day.
In Brenda’s spare time, she and Mark would go crabbing as often as they could, and they enjoyed bringing their children and grandchildren along for the fun. Brenda’s love for her grandchildren was immeasurable, and she was grateful to be able to spend so much time with them. Together they would work in the garden, bake, craft, and even hike. Family dinners on Sundays were a tradition and a highlight of her week.
Brenda was preceded in death by her mother, Betty Doersam, and is survived by her father, Ronald Doersam, and her sister, Debra Scott. She is greatly missed by her husband of 45 years, Mark, and their children, Shannon (Wayne), Aaron, and Heather, and their beloved grandchildren, Paige, Brittani, Sofia, Maya and Ben and great-grandchildren, Hudson and Bodhi as well as innumerable extended family and friends. Brenda’s sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law were like her own sisters and brothers, and her nieces and nephews were loved like her own children.
Our mom fought a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer and never once let us see how hard it was for her; her humor, wit and optimism endured until the end. This world is a darker place without her light.
Services will be at Mountain View Memorial Park at the Celebration of Life Center on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at 11:30am. Reception to follow.
What’s your fondest memory of Brenda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Brenda?
Share a story where Brenda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Brenda you’ll never forget.
How did Brenda make you smile?