Donald Kelsey

STERLING- Donald McNish Kelsey, 79, died, March 21, 2019 at St. Anthony Medical Center, Rockford. Donald was born on October 19, 1939 the son of Wilfred and Alta (McNish) Kelsey. He was born and raised in Barrington, Illinois and a graduate of Barrington High School. Donald married Patricia (Jacobson) Kelsey on July 31, 1983 whom he loved and adored. They raised their six children in Fox River Grove and retired in Milledgeville, Illinois. Donald had a lifelong passion as a pigeon flyer since his teen years. He was a proud and active member of the Rock River Valley Racing Pigeon Club and the Corn Country Combine. He enjoyed his time as a youth baseball coach and was a long standing member of the Fox River Grove School Board. Don worked in many positions in the Barrington Illinois post office and from there he retired. He was a best friend to many. Don’s humor, generosity, enjoyment for life were some of his amazing traits. He will be missed by so many. Donald was a cherished father of six children, Stephanie, Scott, Bryan, Sheri, Shawn, and Emily; Grandfather to 11; and great grandfather to 7. He was also a cherished brother to six siblings, Frank of Florida, Sharon in Alaska, and his twin Diana in Michigan, whom was known for a positive influence and support in Don’s life. He was also survived by his ex-wife Tippie Bolich of Sebring, Florida. He will join his mother Alta and Wilfred Kelsey in heaven, both avid passionate Chicago Cubs fans. He was also preceded in death by Ward Kelsey, sister Marylyn Baumann, and sister Verdelle Pedersen. Memorial service will be held at 5 PM Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Schilling Funeral Home and Cremation, Sterling. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 4PM-5PM. Cremation Rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers memorial may be made to Rock River Valley Racing Pigeon Club. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com