Kelsch Vern E

Vern Eugene Kelsch passed away peacefully on January 28, 2016 surrounded by his family at his winter home in Tucson, AZ. He was born on May 30, 1925 in Green Creek, ID, the son of Peter and Bertha (Pointer) Kelsch. The family later moved to Idaho Falls where he farmed with his parents, brothers and sisters. In 1944, he enlisted in the US Navy where he proudly served aboard the USS Intrepid during World War II. In 1948, he married Mildred (Millie) Hersley and together they owned and operated the Saving Center for 60 years, working side by side with her and with their five children. He also served on the Associated Foods Board of Directors for ten years. Sadly, he closed the store in 2008 at the spry young age of 82. Vern was the perfect example of the work and reward of living the "American Dream". In September 2009, Vern married Ruth Hackman and they spent the last 7 years as "Snowbirds", spending winters in Tucson and summers in Idaho Falls. Throughout his years, Vern always treasured spending family time at the cabin in Island Park where he loved snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, hiking, and boating. These times we will always hold dear in our hearts. He was an active and devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Idaho Falls and more recently attended St. Thomas Catholic Church in Tucson during the winter months. The world lost a wonderful man and Heaven gained a great angel. You will always be missed. Vern is survived by his wife Ruth Hackman Kelsch; four children: Richard Kelsch, Catherine (Steve) Hardy, Kris (Dave) Burgess and Robert (Ginny) Kelsch; four stepchildren; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; his brother James and his two sisters Betty (Pete) Lumia, and Joyce (Bill) Rausch. He was preceded in death by his parents Pete and Bertha; wife Millie; son Martin; brothers Ralph, Raymond, Kenny, Leonard; and sisters: Phyllis, Florence, Margaret and Mary Carol.

Service Details.

Visitation

When: Thursday, February 11th, 2016
Location: Funeral Home
Address:

Service

When: Friday, February 12th, 2016
Location: Funeral Home
Address: