BRIDGTON – Richard, “Dick” Kelson, 94, passed away Sept. 25, 2019 peacefully with his family at his side. He was the son of Charles and Emily (Wark) Kelson of Westbrook.
Dick graduated early from Westbrook High School 1943 to enlist in the U.S. Navy, only 17, when World War II erupted. Honorably discharged in 1946, he attended University of Maine at Orono for BA in Business, class of 1950. There he played club hockey, 1947-1950. Dick continued playing hockey with the Greater Portland Old-Timers, “Old Boots” in Falmouth and UMO Alumni until age 84!
He married Beth Jane Berube, also of Westbrook, on June 27, 1949. They had four children, Marcia, Susan, Bruce and Brian.
He was very involved in the Maine Magicians Society performing shows for the public and birthdays. While working for CMP, his career advanced and they moved from Gardner to Auburn, Jay then settled in Bridgton in 1972. There he built their year round home on Long Lake where he retired in 1984 as District Manager of Bridgton.
He enjoyed the family fishing trips to Sebago and Moosehead as well as traveling in his motor home with the “Maineabagos” and wintering in Florida or Myrtle Beach.
His wife predeceased him as well as his brothers.
Service to be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta with his children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Gifts in memory of Richard Kelson ’50 may be made to support U of Maine Men’s Ice Hockey payable to the University of Maine foundation or online at umainefoundation.org/memorial
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