Charles M. Kelso, 86, of Newburg, passed away the afternoon of Monday, January 18, 2021 at his home with his loving family by his side.
He was born on Friday, July 20, 1934 in Newburg, a son of the late Leland M. and Beatrice A. (Byers) Kelso.
Charles was the owner and operator of Charles M. Kelso Building Contractor, working until he was the age of 82. He was a faithful man that loved hunting, bowling, racing, carpentry, and playing the piano and singing. He was a loving father and grandfather that enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed stopping by McCune Lumber to talk to his buddies. There were three things that Charles especially took great pride in; being married to the love of his life, Jean for 66 years, having his grandson Weston work for him for over 20 years and mentoring him along the way, and building The Orchards Restaurant in Chambersburg.
He was a member of the Hopewell United Methodist Church of McKinney, attending for all 86 years of his life. He was also a life member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Newburg Hopewell Fire Company, and the Orrstown Lodge #262 Free & Accepted Masons. Charles was also a United States Army Veteran that served in Korea.
Charles is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth “Jean” (Kitzmiller) Kelso; two daughters, Colleen (Greg) Alleman of Newburg, and Cheryl (Tony) Kelley of Annville; three grandchildren, Weston (Autumn) Alleman, Tyler (Ashley) Kelley, and Carla (Shawn) Fogel; and four great grandchildren, Preston Alleman, Payton Alleman, Jamison Kelley, and Reagan Kelley.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Gerald Kelso and one sister-in-law, Eleanor Jane Kelso.
There will be a public viewing on Thursday, January 21, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Fogelsanger-Bricker Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc, with Masonic Rites bestowed at 6:00 p.m. For the safety of all in attendance, please wear a mask and maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others. Funeral services with Rev. John A. Ile, Jr. officiating will be private. Private burial with military honors conducted by the Minutemen of the Oscar M. Hykes American Legion Post #223 will be in the Hopewell United Methodist of McKinney Church Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hopewell United Methodist Church of McKinney, 10 Enola Road PO Box 409, Newburg, PA 17240.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.fogelsanger-brickerfuneralhome.com.