Kelly Stevens Sr., Kaˀ nihawʌná or "Small Voice", of Oneida, Wisconsin, began his journey to the Spirit World surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of strength and devotion to his family.

As a young man, Kelly attended Flandreau Indian School, where he emerged as one of the Upper Midwest's premier light-welterweight boxers. A proud member of the legendary Soaring Eagle Boxing Club, he built a reputation as a disciplined and determined competitor. In 1976, Kelly captured the Upper Midwest Golden Gloves Championship in Minneapolis, earning the opportunity to compete at the National Golden Gloves Championships in Miami, Florida. There, he shared the stage with some of boxing's most celebrated names, including Sugar Ray Leonard. Kelly continued both his amateur and professional boxing career into his mid-thirties, becoming one of the many respected fighters to come from the Soaring Eagle Boxing Club.

Kelly also participated and devoted to traditional ceremonies with All Nation Strong Hold in Bay area in California.

In recognition of his accomplishments and lasting impact on the sport, Kelly was honored in 2022 as an "Honorary Outstanding Fighter" during a boxing event at the Ho-Chunk Casino in Wittenberg, Wisconsin.

Beyond the boxing ring, Kelly demonstrated courage from an early age. At just 16 years old, he participated in the American Indian Movement's efforts at Wounded Knee, helping transport supplies during the 1973 occupation. His willingness to serve reflected a lifelong commitment to supporting Indigenous communities during moments of hardship.

While his athletic accomplishments were remarkable, Kelly's greatest pride was his family. After his boxing career, he dedicated himself to his wife, Shelly, and raising his seven children, providing them with love and guidance. Throughout his life, Kelly lived free from drugs and alcohol, demonstrating quiet strength and setting an example for his family. Kelly will be remembered not only as a champion boxer but also as a devoted father, a kind uncle, watchful brother, and a loving son and grandson.

He is survived by his mother, Marj, his mother and father-in-law, Valerie and Marshall, his children; Paul, Shakira, Anastasia(Kacey), Coleman(Demetria), Kelly Jr., Natasha(Jerrad), and Vernon; his grandchildren; Aubrey, Sebastion and Cante; and his many siblings, nieces, and nephews that loved him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his great grandmother, Maria; his father, Ernie Sr.; his brothers; Ernie Jr and Coleman; and his beautiful wife, Shelly.

Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home 305 N Tenth Street, De Pere from 4:00PM – 6:00PM Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Oneida Hymn Singers will sing at 5:30PM. Visitation will continue Tuesday evening at 7:00PM at the Oneida Nation Longhouse, until time of service at 10:00AM on Wednesday morning. Burial to follow at the Oneida Sacred Burial Grounds.

May his memory continue to inspire future generations to live with love.