Mervin Leroy Kelley, born on April 8, 1943, in Bertha, Minnesota, was the beloved son of Bernard Lee and Doris Ida (Lippert) Kelley. He was the only son among five siblings, with two older and two younger sisters. Raised on a family farm in rural Bertha, Merv graduated from Bertha High School in 1961, where he participated in track and field and was an active member of the choir.
After high school, Merv attended Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho for approximately three years. When his father fell ill, he returned home to assist with the family farm. It was during this period that he met Renee Matz at a church event, and they were married on July 1, 1966. The couple initially lived and worked on the Kelley farm until the passing of Bernard.
Merv’s dedication to his faith led him to serve with Youth for Christ in Wadena, Minnesota. In 1974, he responded to a calling to pastoral leadership, beginning as Pastor of Youth and Music in Plainview, Texas, eventually serving as senior pastor. In 1979, Merv and Renee returned to Minnesota, where he devoted 20 years as senior pastor of the Church of the Nazarene in Fergus Falls.
Upon leaving ministry in 1999, Merv demonstrated his skilled craftsmanship and lifelong love of woodworking by founding Kelley’s Hardwood Flooring in Fargo, where he remained active until recently.
Throughout his life he also enjoyed sports and shared his passion by coaching his sons’ youth basketball teams. A gifted musician, Merv played the trumpet and sang using his talents to produce and direct numerous church productions. Known for his warm and engaging nature, he had a remarkable ability to connect and visit with people.
Merv Kelley will be fondly remembered by his family as a devoted husband, cherished father, and loving grandfather. They treasure memories of joyful road trips across the country. Throughout his life, Merv’s faith and love of the Lord were his guiding light and source of strength.
His life stands as a testament to his commitment to family, faith, community, and the joy he found in sharing his many gifts with others.
Merv is survived by his wife, Renee Kelley, of Fargo, ND; three children: Brad (Kim) Kelley of Fargo, Shanda (Rob) Carlson of Argyle, MN, and Brent Kelley of Omaha, NE; five grandchildren: Brittney Kelley, Hannah (Chris) Porter, Payton Carlson, Annika (fiancé Brandon Van Den Einde) Carlson, and Aidan Kelley; two great grandchildren: Emmett and Brooks Porter; three sisters: Marilyn (Leonard) Howard of Fergus Falls, MN, Kaureen (Reno) Wells of Hackensack, MN, and Angie (Steve) Schlossberg of Henrico, VA; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Merv was preceded in death by his son. Brian Kelley; parents, Bernard and Doris Kelley; and one sister (who passed two days prior), Virginia “Gin” Smith.
Merv passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at his home in Fargo, ND at the age of 83 years.
Memorial services will be 11:00 AM, Monday, May 11, 2026, at Brookdale Baptist Church in Moorhead, MN with Pastor Thomas Overmiller officiating. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service.
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