Rhonda Kennelly

Rhonda Jean (Elder) Kennelly, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away at home on October 29, 2023, at the age of 69.  Rhonda had an unexpected bout of cancer and departed this world surrounded by loved ones.  Rhonda was born in Mount Shasta, CA and grew up in Redding, CA, was raised with love in the Catholic religion.  Rhonda was the first born of six children, attended Shasta High School, class of ’72.  Rhonda was very artistic and loved to dance, so much so that she belonged to a dance group and later moved to Yreka to teach dancing along with her grandmother.  Rhonda met the man of her dreams Pat Kennelly, and they married in 1978, a marriage that lasted 45 years.  Rhonda and Pat had three children, daughters Bridget and Deidre and the youngest was their son Patrick. Together Rhonda and Pat ran an internationally acclaimed waterski shop and ski school for over 40 years. Rhonda leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and generosity that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.  Rhonda is survived by her mother Alice “Marilyn” Elder, and leaves behind her husband, Pat Kennelly of Folsom, daughter Bridget Kennelly Youngers, son-in law Jeremy Youngers of Orangevale, and Deidre Kennelly Chavez, son-in-law Stephen Chavez of Auburn and son Patrick Kennelly, of Boston, grandchildren James Youngers, Clare Youngers, Joseph Youngers, John Youngers, and Logan Chavez; siblings Diana Boek of Redding, Leanne Evans of Orangevale, Ted Elder of Red Bluff, and Candace Beck of Carmichael.

A Vigil Service will be held on Monday, November 6, 2023 at 6:00 pm at St. Mel Catholic Church, 4745 Pennsylvania Ave, Fair Oaks. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 10:00 am at St. Mel Catholic Church, 4745 Pennsylvania Ave, Fair Oaks with burial following at Calvary Cemetery, 7101 Verner Avenue, Citrus Heights.