Kellee Rae Kucera and her beloved dog Chico left their earthly home on July 7, 2023. Kellee fought a long HARD battle with depression. She was born April 25, 1961, in Norfolk, NE to Johnny Kucera and Marjorie (Johnson) Malena.
She lived most of her teenage, young adult life in San Diego, CA where she had a very successful cleaning business. She returned to Lincoln, NE in 1986 where she got clean and sober, received her associate degree for drug and alcohol counseling and continued to have a successful cleaning business as well, for many years. Kellee had invited many people to stay with her. To help them get sober or keep their sobriety. Some are still sober today; she did have some great successes! Kellee never had children of her own, she had her nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews that she loved spending time with. She loved to ask them, “should we take a nap?” That will always be one of the funniest memories her “littles” will have to laugh about. She loved sitting on Susie’s deck and just watching the kids swim and play. Oh my, those that had the privilege of knowing her, knew she loved with her whole heart and would do anything within her means to help. She never had much, but what she had she would give if you needed it. A single mom with 3 kids didn’t have a microwave so Kellee gave her the one off her counter. Kellee had the biggest heart and was a great “dog” mom. She will be greatly missed by many. Kellee is proceeded in death by her parents, Marjorie and Ronnie Malena, biological father
Johnny Kucera. She is survived by her Bonus mom Sharon Boatwright, sisters Susie (Avery) Quakenbush, Jen Kucera, brothers Bruce (Cindy) Kucera, Michael (Erika) Malena as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, cards and donations for end-of-life expenses can be sent to Susie Quakenbush – 4020 Colfax Ave. Lincoln, NE 68504
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It has taken me several days to find the right words about Kellee. I was her next-door neighbor for the whole time she lived in her home until I had to move a couple of years ago. We stayed in touch though. My heart is so full of memories with her from nearly 20 years of living next to her. She never counted the cost but always jumped in to help out when we did many little yard and house projects together over the years. I knew of her troubles with depression and the other things too that she had endured and was always amazed that she got right back up and started again. When the dark clouds started to gather over her, I always was watchful for her wellbeing and tried to be supportive in whatever way she wanted. I am just so sorry that we have lost this beautiful, kind and generous soul. My consolation is that I will see her again on the other shore and we will have forever to plant flowers together. She will always live in my heart. Be kind and be loving to all without judgment. Life can be really hard.
– Mary Straub
I just heard this today. Kellee was my sister-in-law through a previous marriage to my brother who just found this out himself. Kellee was one of the most kind and generous people I had ever met. My heart is heavy for those who knew and loved her. Life is hard. Spread kindness. Do something to make today a better day for someone. Be at peace Kellee.
– Trish Snell Petersen
Kellee was my aunt through marriage. I loved her dearly even after she and my uncle were no longer married. She would do anything for anyone and always promoted sobriety. She was so funny, and smart and full of energy. I hadn’t seen her for a while so am sad to hear this news. Kellee will be missed and thought of often with so much fondness.
– Amanda Sack
I have lots of memories with you Aunt Keekee. Big thanks to you for getting me hooked on Ninos Nachos from deleons. I miss how caring and loving you were. I found lots of pictures of Em and you playing. She misses you, I miss you, we miss you! Even the times you would call me and ask for help with your phone, but you were on your phone, and we were not in the same room, so helping you was very difficult but I still managed multiple times. Hope your flying high and enjoying Heaven! I love you so much!!! Sharing a picture of one of the many times Em spent so much time with you.
– Hailee Quakenbush
I hadn’t seen Kellee for many years, but always enjoyed conversing with her when we did. She had a beautiful smile and a sweet personality. I am heartbroken to learn of her passing. My prayers are with all who loved her. May God bless and comfort all of you.
– Kathy Drewes
Kellee came to live with her Dad and I in San Diego in her mid teen years. She was a delight, a helper and a wonderful girl. She never spoke an unkind word to me and did anything I asked. She was always loving. I loved her then and I love her now, she will always live in my heart. I called her Kelby and she called me Mom or Pooh. My heart goes out to her Sister Sue and her family and her Brother’s Bruce and Mike. This Bonus Mom loved her dearly.
– Sharon c. Boatwright
Christmas 1979
– Jay Zevely
Kellee was a great dog mom. Chico was the ruler of the house.. adopted “rescued” him from abuse. Kellee was his human and he let everyone know that. RIP Kellee and Chicoman
– Susie Quakenbush
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