Kelli Sue Cooper

Kelli Sue Cooper, age 56, of Michigan, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2026, at her home.

Kelli was born on April 16, 1970, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Ronald and Arlys (Draeger) Czapiewski. She attended school in Hannah, North Dakota, until the second grade before moving to Neche, where she was raised and later graduated with the high school class of 1988.

Kelli held several positions throughout her life, notably serving for years as the manager at Cenex and working at local nursing homes. She had a true gift for connection and deeply loved interacting with all the people she met along her path. Her giggle was infectious and brought joy to those around her.

A true lover of the outdoors, Kelli always preferred the country life. Whether she was tending to her chickens or out helping Rodney with the cows, she was always up for the task and found true joy in working on the farm. Kelli was known for being feisty, but those who truly knew her knew she was a big softie with a deeply caring heart. In her quiet time, she enjoyed spending countless hours crocheting, putting together puzzles, and doing her fill-ins word books. She also had a sweet tooth, regularly requesting Mello Yello and spiced gumdrops. Her vibrant personality also shone through in her famous collection of crazy socks, which she loved showing off. You rarely saw her go anywhere without her “poochies,” Angel and Mr. Bandit.

Kelli is survived by her sons: Brett Zacher and Trever Czapiewski; partner, Rodney Jorde; sisters: Janet (Chad) Hoverson and Traci (Travis) Frahm; bonus children, Aaron and Josh Zacher; grandchildren: Breydee and Kora; and many nieces and nephews.

Greeting her in heaven are her parents; her brother, Darin; and her stepson, Dustin.

Burial and memorial services will take place at a later date.