Denise Ann Kellenbeck

It’s with great sadness that our family announce that Denise Ann 'Lovelace' Kellenbeck passed away of natural causes on Wednesday, November 22, 2017. We are blessed to have had such a lovingly loyal, quick-witted, and beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Denise was born in Elkton, Oregon, on April 14, 1934. Her primary education in Drain, Oregon, culminated in her graduation from Drain High School in 1952. She entered Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon, following her graduation.
She married Earl Kellenbeck in Drain, Oregon, on December 23, 1953. The couple moved to Grants Pass, Oregon, in July of 1960. Upon their arrival, they started Earl W. Kellenbeck General Contractors. Together, they built approximately 1000 homes, 30 apartment complexes, several churches and commercial buildings throughout Southern Oregon. Denise successfully managed the finances and business office for over 25 years.
Denise was involved in many local civic endeavors, including the Three Rivers Hospital Foundation Board, Daughters of the American Revolution, PEO for over 50 years, and recently a volunteer of the Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce. She was also actively involved in the development and planning of Three Rivers Hospital.
Denise enjoyed both round and square dancing, bowling and oil painting. Family was central to her life and she was very engaged in the activities of her children and grandchildren. Denise took great pride in her family, home, church and community. She was a very caring soul and known for being a wonderful cook and hostess.
Denise is preceded in death by her father, Dennis Lovelace; mother, Anna Lovelace; brothers, Harry and John Lovelace; and husband, Earl Kellenbeck.
She is survived by her son, Mark Kellenbeck; daughters, Cynthia Howard and Heather Parker; seven grandchildren, Betsy Cole, Phillip Kellenbeck, Julie Roach, Mitchell Adair, Jessica Olsen, Anna Gallo and Alicia Gallo; seven great-grandchildren, Aaron, Ryan, Madison, Miles, Lucas, Caius and Abram; as well as sister, Leta Neiderheiser; and brothers, Kelly and Bill Lovelace.
Her generosity and kindness was known by many as she opened her heart and home to all. She mentored and nurtured many young folks' start in life, offering ongoing love and support. After a blessed and full life of 83 years, Denise, a strong Christian and classy lady, has gone ahead to meet the Lord—we will miss her every day.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2017, at Hull & Hull Funeral Home, 612 N.W. A Street, Grants Pass, Oregon. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park. A light lunch and a celebration of life reception is to follow at Grace Bible Church, 1555 N.E 10th Street, Grants Pass, Oregon.