Kelly Anne Strong

“Anwaatinibiik," meaning “Spirit of the still water,” passed away on June 30, 2025 at her home in Gary, Duluth, at the age of 56. A proud member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Kelly was affectionately known as “Silly Auntie Go-Go" or simply “Go-Go” by many in the tribal community.

Kelly was born in Duluth, MN in 1968 and grew up as the youngest of seven siblings on the Lake Vermilion reservation. She was Valedictorian of her class in ‘87 and used her academic achievement to pursue a college degree in nursing, eventually becoming a registered nurse. That said, she also fondly recalled her early job as tour guide operator at the Soudan Underground Mine. A socialite with her “V SQUAD” and an adventurous spirit, Kelly loved kayaking in the rivers, unserious golfing, and playing in her social softball league. She never turned down a vacation to a tropical oasis, or a chance to dance at the next powwow.

Kelly’s career in nursing was highlighted in two distinct roles: Public Health Nurse for Fond Du Lac and floor, ICU, and ER nurse at St. Mary’s hospital in Duluth. Her compassion and skill touched countless lives, and she was known for her steady presence, expert care, and deep devotion to her patients. She was an advocate for compassionate treatment and education, always placing her patients’ dignity and well-being at the center of her professional career.

In the midst of her vibrant nursing career, Kelly experienced a life-altering injury when a patient caused severe trauma to her shoulder and spine. Despite this, she never lost her medical spark. Kelly faced her new reality with bravery and a strong spirit. Her recovery was long and difficult, spanning multiple years. She was told she might never use her arm again by her medical caregivers, but with her STRONG perseverance and stubbornness, she eventually regained the ability to hold a cup in her hand, a triumph she celebrated with great pride.

Even after leaving her nursing work, Kelly continued to serve others. She used her story and experience to teach students and professionals alike about resilience, care, and the true meaning of healing. She remained dedicated to the medical field through education and advocacy, speaking at local events and helping future nurses and doctors better understand complex conditions and patient care from the inside out.

Kelly was best known for her silly, outgoing personality, her infectious laugh, and the way she lit up any room she entered. She was endlessly generous with her time and love, always ready to support a family member, friend, or stranger in need.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Carl James Dagen, in 2009; her mother, Mary M. Strong (“Waubcomegook”) in 2015, her close friend, Pelagie “Mike” C. Snesrud in 2021; and her niece, Danielle “Dani” Pieratos in 2025.

She is survived by her loving son, Jeremiah “CTLB” “Jage” Strong of Minneapolis; her closest friend and fiercest advocate, Okechukwu “Okey” Iwu of Duluth; her brothers and sisters: Tracey “Junie” Strong Dagen , Cheryl "Winnie” Milbridge, Kevin Strong, Carrie Strong and Denise Pieratos (all of Lake Vermilion “Rez” Reservation); her “first kid” niece, Nicole “Nikki” Pieratos of Minneapolis; cherished friends Karen Harmon and Tina Sullivan (of Duluth); along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Kelly “Go-Go” will be forever remembered for her compassion, her courage, her love of family and community, and her unshakable spirit and strength. Her legacy lives on in the many hearts she touched, and in the lessons she passed on to future generations of caregivers and loved ones.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 5th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Vermilion Wellness Center, 1615 Farm Rd S, Tower, MN 55790. The Funeral will follow on Sunday, July 6th at 10:00 a.m.

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                                  “Suck it up, buttercup!” - “There’s strong and then there’s Kelly STRONG”

• Kelly Strong's go-to phrases in the face of hardship. Through years of adversity and healing, she embodied what it means to be a truly Strong woman, that is, Kelly STRONG!