Kelly Gene Bothum, 70

Kelly Gene Bothum, 70, of Baudette, Minnesota, passed away peacefully in his home at Cyrus Resort on October 11, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. 
Born January 18, 1955, in Crookston, Minnesota, Kelly was the beloved son of the late Manny and Eileen Bothum. Kelly graduated from Karlstad High School in 1973. 
He married Susie Davis ( the late Susie Chwialkowski)  in 1975, and they welcomed a son, Josh, in 1977.  
He graduated from Thief River Falls AVTI with a degree in aviation mechanics.  He was an owner/operator truck driver in the Twin Cities for many years. His most recent work was with Davidson Construction out of Holt, MN. He enjoyed his job and spoke highly of those he worked with. 
Kelly will be remembered as a great friend to many—someone always ready with a helping hand, a thoughtful word, or a story shared over coffee. He was generous, kind-hearted, and deeply loyal, often speaking with immense pride about his son, Josh, and his grandchildren, Charlie and Anna. 
Kelly found great joy in the outdoors, whether casting a line on Lake of the Woods, heading into the woods for deer season, or simply watching the sunrise. Nature was his sanctuary, and his love for animals—especially his faithful dog Sammy, who passed away in 2024—showed the depth of his compassion. 
He is survived by his son, Josh Bothum of Dickinson, ND; grandchildren Charlie and Anna of Dickinson, ND; his brothers, Brian Bothum of Thief River Falls, MN;  Richard Bothum (Bonny) of Kennedy, MN; and his sister, Kristi (Bothum) Anderson (Scott) of Hawley, MN, as well as many other relatives.  Kelly was preceded in death by his parents. His warmth, generosity, and friendship will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

 A private family service will be held at a later date to honor Kelly’s life and memory.