Kelly Zaback Arndt

Kelly Ann Zaback Arndt was born on February 18, 1961, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to John and Selma (Nelson) Zaback, and transitioned to heaven on February 27, 2026, in Renton, Washington, at the age of 65.

Kelly grew up in Bismarck and graduated with the Century High School Class of 1979. In 1988, she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Dakota, and then moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she excelled in sales for several companies.

In 1989, at the age of 28, Kelly was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. For the first ten years it did not significantly impact her daily life. She was formerly married to Steven Arndt, and together they welcomed the greatest gift of Kelly’s life, her beloved daughter, Magen Diane Arndt, in 2001.

After residing in Minneapolis for several years, and as the challenges of MS progressed, Kelly and Magen moved back to Bismarck to live with her mother. Later, Kelly, Magen and her mother moved to Renton, Washington, to be closer to Kelly’s siblings, surrounding her with even more family support and love.

She always made the best of everything and met life with courage, humor, and grace. Over the years, she fought hard, trying every treatment available, but in time the disease gradually took more from her and ultimately robbed her of her physical life. Her strong faith was the cornerstone of her life, providing strength and comfort as she faced each day

For approximately 40 years, Kelly enjoyed a very good life filled with family, friends, fun, and work, while the last 15 years were a much harder battle. Through it all, Kelly remained kind, fun, and full of spirit, leaving a lasting imprint of love on everyone who knew her.

Kelly is survived by her daughter Magen Arndt and her partner Josnaldo Marrero, granddaughter Adalynn Antonella and soon to arrive granddaughter Sophia Ann Marrero-Arndt, Mother Selma Zaback, sister Patricia Zaback and brothers Michael and Rod Zaback. She is survived by nieces and nephews, Shayla, Austin, Kailey and their families. She is also survived by aunts, uncles and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her father John Zaback.

Kelly had many lifelong high school friends. She looked forward to and cherished the annual visits of Betsy and Sharon, whose love and companionship meant so much to her over the years.

Kelly will be deeply missed by so many, and her courage will continue to inspire us all to live each day to the fullest and truly savor every experience.