Francis Kelso

On February 10, 2022, Francis William Kelso passed away peacefully at the age of 91 after a short illness. Born in Washington, DC, he grew up in Linthicum, Maryland, and moved to Columbia as a pioneer resident with his family in 1967. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Joan, parents Arthur and Helen Kelso, his four sisters Marita Murray, Betty Brennan, Barbara Pressler, Rosemary Richeson, his brother, David Kelso, and his grandson, Dalton Windows. He is survived by his brother James Kelso.

Francis was the proud and loving father of four daughters and their spouses, Janet Kelso Klenke, Dr. Robert Klenke, Carol Kelso Wolter, Thomas Wolter, Dr. Nancy Kelso, Timothy Duvall, Joan Kelso Windows, and RJ Windows. He was "PopPop" to grandchildren, Shane and Danielle Wolter, Preston and Ashley Wolter, Brennan Wolter, Drew Wolter, Jackson Wolter, Barbara Klenke, Louie Klenke, Brendan Smedley, Brett Smedley, Kylie Windows, and Joan Kelso.

After graduating from St. John's College in 1949, Francis enlisted in the Air Force and served in the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, he pursued a graduate degree in engineering from Johns Hopkins University. For 35 years he was employed by Westinghouse Corporation as an electrical engineer and worked on projects all over the world.

Away from work, Francis was a volunteer soccer coach for a decade supporting SAC's girls' soccer--neighborhood and travel teams. He served on the Board for the Columbia Swim Team and carried out a variety of volunteer roles during swim meets. He was a regular spectator at his grandchildren's sporting events and enjoyed attending Wilde Lake High football games long after his children had graduated. An avid golfer, he was able to play regularly once retired. Most cherished were family holidays and vacations.

Francis, and his late wife Joan, moved into Vantage Point in Columbia, Maryland during their later years reconnecting with neighbors and friends. The family is grateful for the love and support given by the wonderful team at Vantage Point.