Kelly J. Goetz, 42, Dickinson, died Thursday, December 29, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Health Center, Dickinson, following a long battle with liver disease. Kelly’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, January 3, 2012, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Richardton, with Fr. Boniface Muggli, OSB as the celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday at Ladbury Funeral Service, with a vigil at 7 p.m., with Fr. Todd Kreitinger presiding. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday.

Kelly Joe Goetz was born June 23, 1969 in Richardton, the son of Victor and Bernice (Hamann) Goetz. Kelly was raised and educated in Richardton, having graduated from Richardton/Taylor High School. He went on to attended and earn a degree as a Diesel Technician, from the North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton.

Kelly worked for Richardton Farm Equipment for 10 years and continued his career at Steier Oil Field Services. He was known for his ability as a very knowledgeable and skilled mechanic. He belonged to the Richardton Fire Department. Kelly enjoyed bowling, was an avid Vikings fan, enjoyed NASCAR, Stock Car Racing and snowmobiling. Kelly also loved to hang out with friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand, helping others before helping himself.

Kelly is survived by his daughter, Jessica, Dickinson; seven siblings, Linda (Edison) Keeler, Dickinson, Vicki (Walt) Crandall, Tyumen, Russia, Janice (Keven) Martin, Bismarck, Richard (Dalene) Goetz, Gillette, Wyo., Donna (Chuck) Arnold, Richardton, Ronald (Kim) Goetz, Gilbert, Ariz., and Glenda (Scott) Schatz, Dickinson; his close friend, Dawn Huschka, Dickinson; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, maternal grandparents, paternal grandparents, brother-in-law, David Grossman, and Niece Erica Goetz.