Lydia Grace Kelm
Our Lydia is now totally healed and at peace in the arms of Jesus. She slipped away with her fiance Chris by her side and her daddy reading the comforting words of Psalm 23 to her over the phone.
Lydia Grace Kelm was born and baptized on June 30, 1991 in Indianapolis. She grew up in West Bend, WI before moving with her family to Orange, CA in 7th grade . She was confirmed in her faith at Salem Lutheran Church in 2005 and then attended Orange Lutheran High School, graduating in 2009. She then attended Concordia University-Irvine, CA, Concordia University Mequon, WI, and Madison Area Technical College, where she received her nursing degree. She used her RN degree and her amazing ability to care for others for 10 years in Florida….in nursing homes, several hospitals, a prison, a rehab facility, and through In-home Healthcare mostly caring for children. Her favorite position was working in Labor and Delivery.
In October of 2024 she met and fell in love with Chris Chaput of Genesee, PA and by New Year’s Eve they were engaged. In June of 1025 she moved up to PA to be with him and her two new step children, Willow and Mason, who she absolutely adored. She loved being a wife and ” bonus-mom”.
Lydia passed away on December 20, 2025 after several months of failing health and while in the hospital awaiting a liver transplant. She is survived by Chris, Willow and Mason Chaput; by her parents Dan and Rachel Kelm of Waynesville, NC; by her brother Michael Kelm also of Waynesville; by her sister Abby Kelm and brother-in-law Eric McManus of San Diego, CA; by her many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins; and by her many, many friends in WI, CA, FL and PA.
The family will have a private memorial service next summer in NC. Memorials may be given to your church or favorite Christian charity.
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter, wife and mother. Prayers for the family as you mourn the loss of another loved one here on earth. May God’s promise of salvation give you assurance of her peace!
Our hearts hurt for the Chaput and Kelm families for their loss. Lydia was such a sweet, caring soul. However, Lydia is now with the LORD she loved and served, completely at peace. This is the comfort provided by the grace of our LORD JESUS, the CHRIST. Our condolences to the families.
So sad to hear about Lydia's passing. We send our love and sympathy to Dan and Rachel and the family
Remembering taking care of this sweet girl when mom and dad were away. Blessed to be able to be her “mom” for a bit. Heart felt sympathy for you Dan and Rachel. Comfort knowing she is with her Savior
Dear Lydia I can’t believe the time wet so fast time got away I can’t believe we’re gone home and one day. I pray to see you again. I love you always well I will see you someday.
My deepest condolences- praying God gives you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Loving you all. In Christ we are restored...
My prayers and love are with all of you. My best memories of Lydia are from babysitting them when little. I’ll always treasure the quiet bedtime moments—gently tickling or rubbing her back, when she requested, as part of her little routine—those were some of her favorite times and mine too. That special connection we shared will stay with me forever. Looking forward to the hugs and conversation we will share in heaven someday!
I am sorry to hear this news and send my deepest sympathy to Dan, Rachel and all your family. (Psalm 31:24) “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the LORD.” Love, Betsy
Sending love while fondly remembering growing up with Lydia. She was always quick to be a friend. It’s comforting to think Anna was able to welcome her with open arms. Wishing you all the best as you navigate this difficult time.
I will miss the random phone calls from Lydia. I would answer and she would say “hi, mary I just wanted to hear your voice. I can’t wait to hear her voice again when we meet in heaven.
My love and sympathy goes with you. Her work on earth was done - Jesus saw fit to bring her home. This IS a comfort for we who believe.
My love and sympathy goes with you. Her work on earth was done – Jesus saw fit to bring her home. This IS a comfort for we who believe.
I will miss the random phone calls from Lydia. I would answer and she would say “hi, mary I just wanted to hear your voice. I can’t wait to hear her voice again when we meet in heaven.
Sending love while fondly remembering growing up with Lydia. She was always quick to be a friend. It’s comforting to think Anna was able to welcome her with open arms. Wishing you all the best as you navigate this difficult time.
I am sorry to hear this news and send my deepest sympathy to Dan, Rachel and all your family. (Psalm 31:24) “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the LORD.” Love, Betsy
My prayers and love are with all of you.
My best memories of Lydia are from babysitting them when little.
I’ll always treasure the quiet bedtime moments—gently tickling or rubbing her back, when she requested, as part of her little routine—those were some of her favorite times and mine too. That special connection we shared will stay with me forever. Looking forward to the hugs and conversation we will share in heaven someday!
Loving you all. In Christ we are restored…
My deepest condolences- praying God gives you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Dear Lydia I can’t believe the time wet so fast time got away I can’t believe we’re gone home and one day. I pray to see you again. I love you always well I will see you someday.
Remembering taking care of this sweet girl when mom and dad were away. Blessed to be able to be her “mom” for a bit. Heart felt sympathy for you Dan and Rachel. Comfort knowing she is with her Savior
So sad to hear about Lydia’s passing. We send our love and sympathy to Dan and Rachel and the family
Our hearts hurt for the Chaput and Kelm families for their loss. Lydia was such a sweet, caring soul. However, Lydia is now with the LORD she loved and served, completely at peace. This is the comfort provided by the grace of our LORD JESUS, the CHRIST. Our condolences to the families.
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter, wife and mother. Prayers for the family as you mourn the loss of another loved one here on earth. May God’s promise of salvation give you assurance of her peace!