Theodore (Ted) J. Kellen

Theodore (Ted) John Kellen, age 59, sadly passed away Friday, August 18, 2023, at his home in Des Moines, Iowa from a long-term illness.

Ted was born November 24, 1963, in Des Moines, Iowa to Donald John Kellen and JoAnn Marie Merfeld. He graduated from Indianola High School in 1982. He later attended the University of Northern Iowa. As his passion for cooking grew, Ted decided to move to Charleston, South Carolina to go to culinary arts school. Ted received his degree from the Culinary Institute of Charleston in 1987. He later moved back to Des Moines becoming lead chef in a variety of restaurants including but not limited to 7 Gabes and Christopher’s. After retiring his knives, Ted worked as a taxi driver. He had stated on multiple occasions his gratitude for his regular customers. He loved meeting so many people from the community doing this work.

Ted enjoyed spending time at Saylorville camping and fishing by the lake with his life partner. He loved to cook for his friends and family. He was known for his remarkable steaks by his close friends and family. On his relaxing days Ted liked to watch his favorite baseball teams the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs. On the days when his teams weren’t playing, he enjoyed watching the horse races and the Kentucky Derby.

Ted is survived by his mother Joann Brantley (Robert), brother Tim Kellen (Nicole), nephew Branson Kellen, stepmother Marilou Kellen, and life partner Olga Gatica.

He was preceded in death by his father Donald Kellen, March 21,2021.

Cremation has occurred and there will be a celebration of life:
Friday August 25, 2023
12:30pm-3:30pm
Windsor Heights Lutheran Church
1240 66th street Windsor Heights, IA 50324

Flowers can be sent to Windsor Heights Lutheran Church at the above address, or contributions may be directed to Mary's Helping Hands in Des Moines, Iowa in Ted’s name.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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