Saturday, November 13, after a courageous five month battle with renal cell cancer. Born in Clinton on March 24, 1942 to Doris Griffin Kelsey and the late Merton E. Kelsey, Henry enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the small town atmosphere of Clinton. As a boy he explored tidal streams in a wooden dinghy, and traveled over the back roads on bicycle. He often reminisced about his "Beaver Cleaver" childhood. A graduate of The Morgan High School class of 1950, he completed active duty in the USMCR. He went on to receive advanced degrees in education from CCSU and ECSU. After college, he settled in Bolton with his wife Marion (Rusty) Zalenski (deceased) and began what turned out to be a 37 year career in classroom teaching at the late elementary level in the Hebron School System. An engaging and demanding teacher, Hank used real life experiences to make learning relevant and applicable. He was active in school reform, participating in the Instructional Support Team and Council at the Gilead Hill and Hebron Elementary Schools 16 for years. He became a spokesperson for teacher empowerment as he participated in the Connecticut Education Association in various capacities. Hank was active in local, regional and state political efforts. During his time in Bolton he served as Chairman of the Democratic Town Committee, Chairman of the Fire Commission, member of the Board of Zoning Appeals. He was a strong advocate for civic engagement and participation at the local level. He is survived by his adoring wife of 6 years, Lucia DelFavero Kelsey of Old Saybrook, his mother, Doris Kelsey of Clinton, mother-in-law, Ersula Zalenski of Manchester, brother Paul Kelsey of Alameda CA. He will also be missed by his step-children Stephan and Valerie Lukac along with their 3 daughters Chloe, Sarah and Angie of St. Bruno, Quebec and step-daughter, Carolina Lukac of Mexico City. In addition, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews join close friends and colleagues in mourning the loss of a man known for integrity, loyalty and love of life. Visitation will be held at the Swan Funeral Home, Route 1, Old Saybrook on Wednesday, November 17, from 2:00 - 6:00 PM. Included at 3:30 PM will be a memorial service celebrating his life and loves which will be led by Hank's minister of faith, Carleen Gerber of The First Congregational Church of Old Lyme.Burial will be private. Remembrance gifts may be made in Hank's name to the Memorial Music Fund of The First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, 2 Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371.
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