Della Kee

Resided in Rapid River, MI
Died April 11, 2023

Rapid River, MI

Della Mae Kee, affectionately called “MiMi” transitioned to the non-physical realm on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 in Marquette, Michigan.

Her family gathered around her during her last hours, sharing stories about this amazing woman and her impact upon her family, friends and nature. Loving and enthusiastic, she touched hearts.

She was a devoted mother and wife. Married and in love for 64 years, she is survived by her soulmate, Jim Kee and her children and son-in-law; Bruce Kee, Kim Kee and Rob Mielke. She is survived by her only brother, Bruce Kime and his wife, June Kime, many nieces, nephews and cousins from Lower Michigan and Munising. As well, she is survived by her grand dogs, Boone, Belle, Levi and her grand cat, Cuinn.

She happily supported and followed her husband’s professional career as they traversed the country and traveled the world. Della and Jim ventured back to their roots in the UP upon retirement, to enjoy old friends, their cabin on the Escanaba River and their beloved log house on the Stonington Peninsula.

One of Della’s special and unique gifts was a deep caring and understanding of the animal world, having rescued hundreds along her life journey; from rabbits to ducks to cats, dogs and birds she embraced and healed the injured and weak. Even at 85, she could be seen watering her outdoor plants, feeding the deer and talking to the birds. She was also known to dress in camouflage and stealthily “adopt” or “relocate” abused animals.

She will be deeply missed on so many levels… but we know she is guiding and guarding us all.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

21 Tributes for “Della Kee”

    Deepest condolences to the Kee family and the Kime family. Prayers for comfort and peace as this very difficult time. Cousin Joy

    Della was such a beautiful person. Her pretty smile and welcoming personality always made you feel happy to be in her presence. She loved her family so much.
    My deepest sympathies to her loving family.

    Della was truly a loving and caring person. She made an impact on everyone she came in contact with. She will be missed very much.

    Kim & Rob
    I just read the beautiful words posted about your dear Mom. I’am sure if you wrote a book there would not be enough words to share all the cherished memories you all have had with your beautiful mom!
    *Those we Love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen unheard, but always near Still Loved, still missed and forever dear.* Hugs Lois & family

    Jim, Kim, Bruce…my heart is heavy with this news…I will miss my little visits with Della. she was a wonderful woman, who in a short time captured my heart! I will think of her often and I will smile.
    with love to all!

    So very sorry to hear of Della’s passing. She was such a sweet lady, free with kind words and smiles. My day always improved when I encountered her. Jim, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

    I am deeply saddened hearing of Cousin Mimi’s passing. She was such a “shining light” and the life of the party!
    Fondly remembering her gorgeous face, her creativity and drawing skills, her fabulous homemade doughnuts, seeing “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” with her and of course, her famous eloping from our Grandparents home in Daytona Beach back to Michigan to marry her Beloved Jim!
    Some of the wonderful memories I’m thinking about now!
    Prayers for God’s peace, love and comfort to surround the Kee’s and Kime’s, as well as the love of friends and family to bring renewed strength and support!

    Bruce, Please accept my sympathy. Mothers are special and a smile comes to my face as I remember your many stories about your mother. Thinking of both Kim and you and sending many “rays.”

    Deeply saddened to hear of Mimi’s passing.
    She was a bright light in the world and the life of the party.
    Remembering her gorgeous face, outgoing personality, hospitality and her artistic creativity.
    Praying for God’s peace to comfort you, the love and support of family and friends to renew your strength in days to come.
    Cousin Mary

    Memory : Bunch of guys living together in Racine WI when Della came from lower Mi. Things changed.

    Bruce, please accept my sympathy. Mothers are special and a smile comes to face as I remember your many stories of your mother. Thinking of both Kim and you and sending many “rays.”

    Miss Della & Jim were two of my favorite seniors at the Gladstone Senior Center when I was the head cook there. We shared stories of dogs!! She was just a delight to be with!! Always a smile & a hug!! My deepest condolences to her family! I’m sure she’s taking care of all the pets over the rainbow bridge!! ❤️

    Uncle Jim, Kim, Bruce, and Rob,
    I am so sorry for the loss of Aunt Della. She was so caring and always happy. I remember you all coming to Munising one time, and when you left to head home the smelt were running, so you got I think it was 2 huge cans full and brought them back to grandma and grandpas for a smelt fry. Impromptu family parties were the best. Love and prayers to you all, always.

    So sorry to hear about Della. Such a wonderful person. I would see her every once in a while out shopping. Heaven received an Angel for sure. Sending my condolences to her family.

    Della could truly warm one’s heart. I’m so glad I had the privilege to know her. Rest in peace, dear Della. ❤️

    This is Mimi’s first Cousin Dorothy. My heart goes out to her children Kim and Bruce and her dear husband Jim. Mimi was a favorite niece of my Mom, her aunt Norma. I’m so very blessed that we had our family reunion in Marion, her brothers house, and we shared great stories and lots of love. I’m sorrowful for her family. Prayers for your time during this loss and mourning.

    With love,
    Dorothy (Longton) Knuth

    Seek the Lord. He can be found.

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