Obituary of Scott Kelsey

Scott Kelsey, 61, of Apollo Beach passed away peacefully at home on December 15, 2023 after a hard-fought battle with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer.

Scott is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Karen, mother Katherine Garrett, nieces Nataleigh Strasburg and Katie Bishop, and great nephew Syd.

He is preceded in death by his father Neile and sister Kim Strasburg.

Those who knew Scott would say he was a loving husband, friend you can count on, consummate professional, took on all challenges and responsibilities with an “all-in” attitude, had a sense of adventure, enjoyed boating, traveling, grilling, fine wine and a good cigar.

His nieces called him their kick-ass fun-loving rock-n-roll uncle, who brought a sense of magic to their world.

Some fun facts people may not know: Scott lived on a sailboat for a while, knew his wife Karen since they were 5 years old and over the years, Scott’s hobbies/passions included: parasailing, spelunking, bowling, shooting pool, ping-pong, scuba diving (including night dives), water-skiing, canoeing, lobstering, shark tooth & fossil hunting, cooking and going on cruises, just to name a few.

A happy day for Scott often included: doing anything out on the water, hanging out poolside playing backgammon, listening to music, visiting with friends and family, being front and center at a concert or sporting event, sitting by a fire, walking on the beach, listening to the waves, watching the sunset, exploring a new restaurant, or trying a new wine.

Scott always put friends and family first, had an amazing ability to turn acquaintances and business associates into friends and felt a sense of pride and accomplishment when bringing people together whether in his personal or professional life. A boss once gave him an “Ambassador of Quan” award, and that sums up Scott’s outlook on life and living it to the fullest.

Even after Scott’s diagnosis, he was determined to make the most of each day, maintain his sense of humor and love of family, travel, music, and “THE” Ohio State Buckeyes.

Scott had time to reflect on his life and said that if he had a chance to do it all over again – he wouldn’t change a thing!

So, raise your glass and toast to a life, that, although was cut short too soon, was a life well lived!

A celebration of Scott’s life will be held at a later date.