William Arthur Kelsey, Jr. was born in St. Louis, MO on April 7, 1926, the youngest child of William and Maud (Bower)Kelsey. He was educated in the St. Louis Public Schools and graduated from Beaumont High School.

In 1944 Bill enlisted in the US Army Air Force and served in Nuremberg, Germany with the 42nd Air Depot Squadron. He attained the rank of Sargent and was honorably discharged in 1946. In 1950, he graduated from the St. Louis Institute of Music, Clayton, Mo with a Bachelor Degree in Piano and Music Education.

Mr. Kelsey taught school in rural Missouri for a few years. In 1955 he moved back to St. Louis where he taught elementary school in the Riverview Gardens school district until his retirement in 1982. He was delighted when former students recognized him with a warm greeting at local restaurants or stores.

In his earlier years Bill raised minks and his beloved dogs Reggie, Hans and Fritz. He enjoyed camping, traveling, cactus gardening, working outdoors, reading, trying new recipes, eating a good meal and spending time with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Virginia Hegge and Helen Pizac, and brother James Kelsey. Surviving are nieces Suzan Kelsey Brooks and Patricia Schutte, nephews Doug Pizac and Dan Pizac and dear friends and caregivers Joel Branger and Judy Bagato.

While holding Joel’s hand, Bill peacefully passed on December 17, 2016. Known for his quick wit and incredible sense of humor, he will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Per Bill’s wishes, he is being cremated and will be interred during a private service at Oak Hill Cemetery in the Spring. Bill hated cold weather.

Special thanks to Dr. Chantri Trinh, BJC Hospice, Christian North East Hospital, and Southern Illinois VNA.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Missouri or Dr. David M. Holtzman/ Washington University Memory and Aging Project.