Scott McKellep

Scott Alan McKellep, of Wadena, Minnesota, passed away on December 19, 2025, in Wadena, Minnesota.

Born on November 18, 1958, in Wadena to Robert and Ruth (Zosel) McKellep, Scott was a lifelong member of the community he so faithfully served. He graduated from Wadena High School and later married his high school sweetheart, Bonita Loween, on April 21, 1990, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wadena. Their union was blessed with three children.

Scott dedicated his life to public service. He began his career as an EMT and served with the Verndale Police Department before joining the Wadena County Sheriff’s Department. Over the course of twenty-six years there, he worked as both a jailer and dispatcher. After retiring from law enforcement, he continued to contribute to his community by working at Wadena-Deer Creek School for ten years.

He was a proud member of the Elks Lodge and the Teamsters Union. Outside of work, Scott found joy in simple pleasures—watching Western movies, listening to the Beach Boys, cooking hearty meals, camping under the stars, and spending time with computers.

Scott is survived by his wife Bonita; children: Kristina (Tim) Coryell, Ryan McKellep, and Allie McKellep; grandchildren: Liberty, Colton, Reaghan, Carleigh, Adalyne, and Emma; sister Kathy Lathrop; sister-in-law: Susan McKellep; many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

Scott is preceded in death by his parents; siblings; Phillip McKellep, Tom McKellep, Robert McKellep, and baby sister Jane Marie; brothers-in-law: Jon Reinitz and Bud Lathrop; sisters- in-law: Yvonne McKellep and Claudia McKellep. 

Scott’s legacy is one of dedication and quiet strength. His presence will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

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