For Dana Marie Kellogg: Celebrating Love and Resilience

Dear Friends and Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I share the unexpected passing of my sister, Dana, who left us on September 25th. Dana was not only my sister but also a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had an infectious laugh and spirit that could lift anyone’s mood.

Dana was born on November 23rd, 1991, and grew up in a loving family of five. As the firstborn in our family and the second grandchild, my parents would parade Dana around to all the relatives when she was an (undeniably) cute baby. She was a darling little girl with long, curly blonde hair and a bright, dimpled smile. She captured the hearts of everyone around her and was rightfully the center of attention at family gatherings. The love, pride, and joy my parents had for her never wavered. Dana became the best sister to my brother Joe and me, and we have many photos of her holding us in her arms—images that remind us of the sister we will always cherish.

I’ll never forget the pride I felt in grade school when someone would ask, “Are you Dana’s sister?” I would enthusiastically say, “Yes, that’s my sister!” thrilled they had recognized our resemblance. Being an annoying little sister, I often pestered her to let me brush and braid her hair, but as we grew up, the roles reversed. Dana would come to me, asking me to braid and style her hair—an opportunity I never turned down, as these were the moments that brought us closest together.

Dana had a unique ability to create lasting connections with those she loved, always holding family close. Our childhood was filled with trips to Grandpa Ned’s house and Aunt Mary and Uncle Roger’s place in Webster, WI. She was a city girl who embraced the excitement of deer hunting culture, bringing energy and laughter to every deer processing event. There was always a story to tell the next day about Dana being the life of the party.

Her love for family and the outdoors blossomed during our time up north. Whether on the lake—paddleboarding, cruising on the pontoon, or collecting rocks—Dana thrived in nature. The weekends we spent at the cabin growing up with her will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Dana’s deep love for animals was evident in her devotion to them. She grew up spending time around horses and even competed in riding shows. She would take any opportunity to encourage us all to join her for a trail ride wherever we traveled. Mom and Dana took a beautiful horseback trail ride together in Yosemite National Park—one of the many memories held extra tight. Her bunny Rhosgobel and her dog Bean were two of the most special to her. Each animal brought her joy, and she cared for them wholeheartedly.

Family camping trips to Yosemite and Olympic National Park were some of her most treasured experiences with family. She cherished the beauty of the outdoors and the memories we created together. For Dana, just being together was what mattered most.

While she faced significant challenges with mental health and addiction, she was also a survivor who inspired many with her resilience and determination. Her journey was a complex one, marked by both struggles and triumphs— SHE NEVER STOPPED TRYING. We want to honor her life and memory by providing her with a dignified farewell and also making a positive impact in areas she cared deeply about.

We are raising funds to cover the costs of her funeral, which we want to be a true celebration of her life. Additionally, any remaining funds will be donated to The Retreat (Wayzata, MN), Greater Minneapolis Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous, and the Minnesota Recovery Connection, which support those affected by mental health and addiction and aim to bring hope to others struggling with similar issues.

Your support would mean the world to us during this difficult time. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help us give Dana the farewell she deserves and continue her legacy of hope and compassion.

We will be having an intimate celebration of life for Dana. Please reach out to me directly for details if you wish to attend. Thank you for your love and support.

-Colleen Kellogg

Obituary Link ~ click here