Richard(Dick) Kelsey was born at Burley,Idaho, on March 9,1961 to parents Mary Lou (Stevens) Kelsey and William Henry (Bill) Kelsey.

Dick spent his first years in nearby Declo, Idaho. When he wasn't busy riding his favorite mule, deer hunting, or playing with matches on the farm, Richard attended the old Declo Elementary School. His mother taught him there three different years.

Later Dick attended Burley High School, where he excelled in football, wrestling, and academics. He was able to snag a football scholarship at a small college.

His professional training as an hydraulic engineer enabled Richard to be sent on work projects all over the state, country, and eventually the world. This included Malaysia, Alaska, Australia, Mariana Islands, Great Britain, Djibouti, and South Africa. While on the continent working, he was also able to safari in many other African countries, including Kenya and Zimbabwe.

In 2016 Richard suffered a severe and life threatening Ailment. For many, this would have confined them to a fearful and sedentary life the rest of their days. Not Richard. As he said himself, the determination and discipline and training he learned as an athlete helped him to almost miraculously regain most of his strength. Soon he found happiness as a salmon and steelhead guide on the rivers at Riggins, Idaho. He even dared go again on dangerous whitewater trips.

Many years ago Dick became interested in Native Indigenous culture and spirituality. He made a pilgrimage up to the Dakotas, investigating and participating in tribal ceremonies.

Much later, he similarly associated with the nearby Nez Pierce, neighbouring his new home in Riggins.

Richard is survived by his two daughters, Kellie Penn and Chera Kelsey, both of Boise, and their spouses and children. He is also survived by brother Marty Kelsey, Green River, Wyoming, sister Teresa Thomson, Paul, Idaho, brothers Dan Kelsey and Bill Kelsey, Burley, Idaho.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, stepfather, older brother John Emil Martens, and brother in law Royle Thomson.

Informal celebrations were held in August in Riggins and Boise, with more to come.

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