Ned Lynn Kelsey, aged 95, passed away peacefully August 3, at his home in Paola, Kansas surrounded by his family. Holy Trinity Catholic Church will host a Rosary Friday, August 9, at pm followed by visitation from pm. The funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity on August 10 at am. Boniface Catholic Cemetery in Scipio, Kansas. Ned was born on November 16, in Greeley, Kansas and grew up on a farm there with his parents and five siblings.
When he returned, he worked in the Oklahoma oil fields. In , Ned married Theresa Marie Mersman. Together they raised six children, moving frequently as he moved up the rank in the oil drilling business. He shared his love of sports playing baseball with his kids after a long day at work.
In the Kelseys moved to Paola, Kansas. Ned was head of maintenance at Lakemary Center. He enjoyed friendships and life-experiences with the kids with disabilities. After getting a degree in refrigeration and appliance repair Ned enjoyed his own appliance repair business after retirement from Lakemary. Nearly everyone in Paola and the surrounding communities know of his excellent and friendly service.
Ned still remembered peoples names, homes and appliances as he ran into them around town. He was known to take repair calls as far away as Louisiana, Arizona and California. It was a thrill teaching the grandkids about nature and wildlife and many of their grandchildren caught their first fish from the dock there and enjoyed "building stuff" with Grandpa in his workshop.
After returning to Paola, Ned worked at Walmart putting grills and bicycles together for Santa. He also enjoyed having the kids get photos while he wore an Easter bunny suit. Ned was a member of the Knights of Columbus lending his support to Holy Trinity church and school events. He dressed as a clown and sold candy to benefit children with disabilities, acted as a Bingo caller, and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow members.
