Obituary of William Robert Kelsay

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William Kelsay of Calgary at the age of 72 years. Bill’s friends and family will miss his passionate joy for life and his gift for story telling. Bill (Billy Bob) was born in Silverton, Texas and spent his childhood in Anthony, New Mexico. As quarterback at Gadsden High School, he led his team through four undefeated seasons and was awarded an athletic scholarship to Colorado School of Mines. Bill received his degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1958 (despite adventures with his Kappa Sig fraternity brothers) and married his high school sweetheart Berwyn McKinney, the same year. After serving in the Army Corps of Engineers, Bill went on to an illustrious career in the oil industry. He worked his way from roughneck to President of Jennings Drilling and retired from Lynx Services in 1992. Bill served as President of the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC) in 1976 and chaired the committee that produced the First Edition Drilling Manual and the First Edition CAODC Standard Drilling Contract for which he was awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership in the CAODC. Bill was a gifted athlete who loved to ski, golf, and fly-fish. He often shared his love of music through impromptu piano sessions. His “hidden” talent included intricate needlepoint work. Bill strongly believed in furthering oneself through hard work and education. Bill’s commitment to family and friends vastly enriched the lives of his children, grandchildren and dear friends. Bill leaves to celebrate his life, daughters and sons in law, Connie and Dan Hendrick of Whitefish, MT and Dr. Kim Kelsay and Darwin Wasend of Denver, CO. Living his legacy are his grandchildren, Kari and Lisa Hendrick and Matea and Emma Wasend. Bill was predeceased by his loving wife of forty-eight years, Berwyn, and his brother Alvin Kelsay. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S, Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Friday, June 13, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Alberta Cancer foundation, c/o Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331-29 Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N-4N2 Telephone (403) 521-3433. In living memory of William Kelsay, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.