Obituary of Neal Theodore Kelzenberg

Neal Theodore Kelzenberg, age 71, of Richfield, MN, passed away peacefully at home on April 17th, 2024.

Neal is survived by sisters Michaeleen, Kerry, Jean (Michael) Flynn, Debbie (Mark) Bloedow, brother Thomas, and nephew Alexander Bloedow, and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Helen Kelzenberg.

Neal was born in Minneapolis on March 20, 1953. Neal was a lifelong resident of Richfield, MN, and graduated from Richfield Senior High in 1971. Neal dedicated his life to serving others. This was demonstrated working a short time at the American Cancer Society and during the 50+ years he assisted Veterans while working for the Department of Veterans Affairs at Fort Snelling. The compassion instilled in his upbringing was evident in the compassionate way he consistently treated his customers and coworkers. Neal started at the VA as a Mail Clerk and worked his way up through the years in the Debt Management Center - his second family and home. Neal was still employed at the time of his death.

The Kelzenberg parents instilled strong values in Neal and his siblings - treat people the way you want to be treated and be kind to children and animals. Neal developed his love of horses from his father, who took Neal and his siblings to local horse auctions, where they purchased a colt for $55. Grooming, feeding, and training Countdown led Neal to riding lessons and the eventual purchases of Dolly, Gemini, and then Irish Lad, and through the years, competing in numerous American Saddlebred horse shows. Neal developed many long-time friendships through horse shows and employment at the VA.

He will be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend, a lover of travel, good food, and thrift store shopping.

His family would like to thank Dr. Peter Hurley and the Oncology staff at Regions Hospital, and the HealthPartners Hospice staff that assisted in Neal's thoughtful care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Neal's name are preferred to your favorite Veterans Affairs charity, Second Harvest Heartland, or the American Cancer Society.

There are no plans for a memorial service.

Private family interment.