Marvin Leon Kelsey

Marvin Leon Kelsey passed from this world February 28, 2018 after a long battle with kidney disease. He was born to Mary and John Kelsey in Ettawa, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Sammy Joe, brothers Gene and Ruben, and a sister Mary Marsh. He is survived by his soulmate of 44 years, Jan, son Steven Douglas and wife Lori, daughter, Marvlyn Ann (Annie), stepson, Larry S. Melton and sister, Sylvia Walden. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Marvin loved life and never knew a stranger. He traveled to 6 continents and all 50 states. He delighted in telling people that he spent one year with Ringling Bros. Circus. While he lived in Arkansas he was a member of several country western bands. He was also enlisted in the U.S. Army, and after World War II, he worked in the Army Occupational Forces in Japan. He left Arkansas and moved to Chicago where he attended heating and air-conditioning school. While there he was active in little theater and was the Grand Knight of a Knights of Columbus organization. He pursued his music entertainment by playing with various bands. He also shared the stage with numerous country western entertainers, such as Porter Wagner and Ray Price. After 17 years in Chicago, he accepted a position with Global Associates as a government contractor for 5 years in the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. He then settled in San Angelo in 1972, where he met his wife, Jan. He was employed by Western Air Conditioning and owned 3 businesses. He attended St. Mark Presbyterian Church, where he often provided “Special Music” for the worship services. He also performed in local bands. His greatest pleasure was entertaining at nursing homes and assisted living facilities. He enjoyed visiting with the clients and seeing them smile. Marvin’s music legacy has been passed down to his son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A Memorial service will be held at St. Mark Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 2:00 PM with the Rev. Craig Meyers officiating. A Visitation and Reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers memorial may be made to St. Mark Presbyterian Church. A special thanks to Interim Hospice, Elaine Baxter, Leslie and Bryan Jackson, and Dr. Chris Barnett for his years of care. Family and friends can sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com