Richard Rosekelly Obituary

Richard Edward Rosekelly

Oct 19, 2025

Red Lodge, MT

Richard Edward "Dick" Rosekelly was born March 11, 1933, in Milan, Ohio, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Red Lodge, Montana.

Born and raised in the family home in Milan. Dick learned the value of hard work early in life. When it came time to build a new home, his parents, Lois and Ed, hired an old German stonemason to finish the home's exterior. Dick and his brother, Eugene, were quick to help and were offered by Ed to be hod carriers, carrying stone and mortar for the mason. Before long, Dick had traded his bucket for a trowel and began learning the craft himself, setting the foundation for what would become his lifelong trade.

After proudly serving in the U.S. Army at Camp Carson in Colorado Springs during the Korean War, Dick returned home and founded Rosekelly Masonry in 1954. He built a strong reputation for craftsmanship and integrity, contracting in Colorado for 22 years before eventually settling in Billings, Montana. For the past 49 years, Montana has been home. Dick's dedication to his work can still be seen in the custom homes and projects that stand as a testament to his skill, work ethic, and pride in his craft.

Beyond his trade, Dick had a lifelong love of horses that began as a 4-H project at the age of 15. He was also a true outdoorsman who found joy and peace in nature's serenity. Whether hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the land, Dick treasured his time outside. During his many hunting adventures across the mountains of Colorado, Alaska, and Montana, he developed lasting friendships and countless stories that reflected his passion for nature and camaraderie. As he slowed down in the mountains, he shifted more time and effort into mentoring and sharing these passions with those coming up around him. His daughter, Sue, fondly remembers their family camping trips in Cripple Creek, Colorado, where her dad's love for the outdoors was always on display.

Dick also cherished the friendships he made within the Shriners community as a proud member of the Black Horse Patrol. The camaraderie and shared purpose of that group meant a great deal to him, and the bonds he formed there became an important and joyful part of his life.

In the late 1990s, Dick met the love of his life, Deloris (DJ), during Sunday breakfasts where they often crossed paths. After a few attempts, she finally accepted his dinner invitation, and from that evening on, their story continued to grow. Together, they built a beautiful blended family full of love, laughter, and mutual respect.

Deloris lovingly shares, "He accepted my family as his own, and as more grandchildren came along, we accepted them all as ours, on both sides. What a wonderful family we have. Dick helped so many people who rented from him or needed a hand through tough times. If you were working hard, he'd help you without hesitation. He believed in people who wanted to move forward, those going to school, learning a trade, or building something out of nothing. He enjoyed helping others. He was the light of my life, and he will never be out of my sight. I love him to the end."

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Deloris Rosekelly; his brother, Eugene (Jodi) Rosekelly of Deland, Florida; his daughter, Susan Gail Mershon (Rosekelly); and his son, Ricky Ray (Alysha, Hayden) Rosekelly. He was a proud grandfather to Beau, Ryan, and Mike (Kayla) Mershon, and April (Cole) Myers and Ridge Rosekelly. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Logan DeCouteau, and Forrest and Lola Myers, along with many extended family members he gained through his life with Deloris, Jim (Dina) Winter, Joshua (Brandi) Winter, and John Lund, and their children, Zachary, Nicholas, Misti, Libby, Jacob, Jexton, Navah, William, and Carson; and great-grandchildren, Olivia, Maddox, Brooke, and Skyler.

Dick will be remembered for his strong hands, generous heart, and unwavering work ethic - a man who built not only homes but a life filled with purpose, friendship, and love.

A celebration of life will take place Saturday, November 1st, at Messiah Lutheran Church in Red Lodge, followed by lunch and a family burial. In an effort to keep Messiah comfortable and welcoming for everyone, we ask that you refrain from wearing strong personal scents or perfumes. Friends of Dick and his family are also invited to gather that evening at The 2nd Shift Bar in Lockwood at 5:30 p.m., where, in true Dick fashion, he'll buy us all one last beer.