Kelli Anne Banks Canson, 64, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Sanford Hospital.

A celebration of her life will be held in the spring of 2026.

Kelli was born on August 13, 1961, to Stephen and Evelyn (Hall) Banks, the youngest of their five children. She grew up and attended school in the Bay Area of California. In 1990, she was set up on a blind date with a man named Frank Canson. Their connection was instant—so much so that they married just one week later, on February 18, 1990.

Throughout her life, Kelli held various jobs, including office manager and insurance sales, before ultimately becoming a full-time homemaker. She cherished the time she spent with her bonus daughters, Maria and Nina, and took great pride in creating a warm, welcoming home for her family.

In 2010, Kelli and Frank moved to Bismarck, where she was grateful to be closer to loved ones. Frank’s job required frequent travel, and after two deployments with the Department of Defense, Kelli encouraged him to retire so they could enjoy more time together.

Kelli had a gift for decorating and delighted in transforming their home for every season. She adored animals—especially the dogs she and Frank welcomed over the years. True to her sparkling personality, she also loved shopping for diamonds.

Kelli is survived by her husband of 35 years, Frank; her stepdaughters, whom she loved as her own, Maria (Shaun) Sumner and Nina Canson, all of San Diego, CA; her grandson, Dominic Sumner; her siblings, Gary (Jamie) Banks, Kevin (Eunice) Banks, Kurt (Cynthia) Banks, and Connie Johnsrud; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents.