WYBEN – Richard L. (Dick) Kelso, 80, (1937-2017) passed away from ALS on June 30, 2017 at Governor’s Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Westfield to the late Richard M. and Mildred (Bartlett) Kelso. Dick was employed as a supervisor at UPS for 30 years. He retired at 50 and continued working until the age of 78 as a self-employed farrier specializing in corrective shoeing and operating his horse farm. He proudly owned Haflinger horses and traveled all around the Eastern US and Austria promoting the breed. Known for their mild mannered behavior and well-rounded abilities – the breed was a perfect match for Dick’s personality. Whether he was driving them from the seat of his surrey or working them at the farm – they embodied the same endurance, drive and passion for the work as Dick did. Along the way and throughout his journeys he made many lifelong “horse” friends and memories all around the US and Europe. Dick lived his life and raised his family in the community of Wyben and was a lifelong member of Wyben Union Church. The little horse farm with the red barn on the side of the road on your way up the mountain, is somewhat of a landmark for many who drive through the community and is Dick’s pride and joy—still home to 5 of his cherished Haflingers. Dick’s family is his greatest love. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Joann C. (Coburn) Kelso of Westfield, his loving children, Richard L. Kelso, Jr. of Westfield, Anjanette Kelso and her partner Gary of Sutton, MA, Michelle A. Dame and her husband Richard of Blandford, MA and the late Charles C. “Chip” Kelso; his cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Tanner, Kelsey, Coburn, Jaimin, Samantha, Gabrielle and Amelia and great grandchildren Maison, Layanna, Atticus, Jayce, Raelynn and Marla. He leaves behind one brother, Donald B. Kelso and his wife Cindy of Dayton Ohio and many beloved nieces and nephews. Dick was blessed to have the friendship of Joseph Kapinos for 52 years – a best friend in every sense of the word. Dick’s family is grateful and humbled by the kindness, selflessness and generosity offered by our friends and family in the community of Wyben who have been and continue to be here for our family every day. Finally, the Kelso family profoundly thanks and appreciates the amazing team at Baystate Hospice – specifically Sharon, who lovingly provided Dick and his family comfort, guidance and peace in his final days.
A Funeral Service for Dick will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at 10AM in the Wyben Union Church, 678 Montgomery Rd., Westfield, MA 01085, followed by burial in Middle Farms Cemetery, Russellville Rd., Westfield, MA. Visiting hours will be held on Friday July 7th from 4-7 PM in the Firtion Adams FS, 76 Broad St., Westfield, MA 01085. Donations in Dick’s name may be directed to the Wyben Union Church, 678 Montgomery Rd., Westfield, MA 01085 or to The ALS Association, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022. www.firtionadams.com
