John W. Kelse

John ''Jack'' W. Kelse, 88, of Kingston, NY, died Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at home with his family. He was born August 19, 1922 in Kingston, NY to the late Charles and Anita (Nickerson) Kelse.

He was married to loving wife Audrey (Koch) Kelse of 67 years. They wed on January 6th 1944.

Jack was a graduate of Kingston High School Class of 1941. Following his graduation he was an apprentice at Electrol in Kingston.

In 1943 he enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country during World War II. He was stationed in the Azores as a Radio Man 1st Class before his honorable discharge in 1945.

After his service Jack became a Tool and Die Maker and returned to Electrol (now known as Huck) where he worked for many years until his retirement.

Jack was a member of the Reformed Church of the Comforter in Kingston.

He was an avid outdoorsman and would spend most of his time outside tending to his gardens and home. He played basketball and softball in Kingston City leagues and church leagues. He also bowled at the YMCA for the church league and later bowled on Wednesday mornings at Hoe Bowl on the Hill. He enjoyed watching basketball on TV especially the NBA Playoffs.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his son John W. Kelse Jr. of Ansonia, CT, daughter Linda LeFevre and her husband Neil of Kingston, NY, grandchildren, Christopher LeFevre of Scotia, NY, Robert LeFevre of California, Laura LeFevre-Beaudette and her husband Mike of Gansevoort, NY, Kimberly Glooch and her husband John of West Hartford, CT, four great grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents Jack is predeceased by his daughter Joyce C. Kelse and his sisters Doris Williams, Delores Bush and Anita Aird.

Entrusted to the care of the Keyser Funeral Service, Inc., 326 Albany Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401, where services will be held on Saturday at 12:00 pm with Rev. Dr. David M. Brechter, officiating.

Burial will follow in Wiltwyck Cemetery, Kingston.

Friends may call on Friday from 3 - 7 pm at the funeral home.

The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made to the Reformed Church of the Comforter, CPO Box 2736, Kingston, NY 12402

Light a candle in memory of Jack at www.KeyserFuneralService.com