William B Kelser

William B. Kelser, age 74, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. Born on October 21, 1950, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Bill was a lifelong resident of the city he loved. He graduated from Loy Norrix High School in 1968 and went on to earn his degree from Albion College in 1972.

Bill dedicated much of his professional life to education, serving for many years as an educator, coach, and sports official at Loy Norrix High School. He was also an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo, where he found community, fellowship, and lasting friendships.

For the past 15 years, Bill shared a deep and loving bond with the love of his life, Nancy Wood. Together, they spent their winters in the Phoenix/Mesa AZ area, enjoying the sunshine and their shared passion for duplicate bridge.

An accomplished and devoted bridge player, Bill achieved the prestigious rank of Ruby Life Master, earning over 2,300 Masterpoints throughout his career. For more than 25 years, he traveled the country to participate in North American Bridge Championships and regional tournaments. Just this past spring, he and Nancy attended the Gatlinburg Regional, a testament to his enduring love for the game. Closer to home, Bill was a beloved member of the Kalamazoo Bridge Club, where he spent countless hours at the table and formed lifelong friendships.

Bill was also a true sports enthusiast. He was a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, and the University of Michigan, and he loved supporting local athletics. He could often be found cheering from the stands at Loy Norrix sporting events, always proud of his alma mater.

He especially cherished childhood memories of Three Rivers and the days spent with cousins on Fisher Lake. Later in life he enjoyed dining with friends at his favorite restaurant Fisher Lake Inn.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Joyce and Robert Kelser. He is survived by his sister, Rebecca Burton, and her husband, James Burton, as well as his nieces, Emily, Lindsley, and Molly.

Bill will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering kindness. His presence brought light and laughter to all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply felt.

A memorial duplicate bridge game will be held in his honor on October 10, 2025, at the Kalamazoo Bridge Club, where a Team Game Event will celebrate Bill’s life and his passion for bridge.

His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.