Rev. Wykoff M. Kelsey (1853-1932)

Rev. W.M. Kelsey, was born near Cuba, New York, June 28, 1853. When about ten years of age, the family moved to Lowell, Ind. At the age of twenty-three he was converted in a meeting held by the "Indiana Band" at Ross, Indiana. Shortly thereafter he entered the evangelistic field and was appointed one of the first general conference evangelists of the Free Methodist church. In 1880 he was united in marriage to Phebe D. Colby of Crown Point. Continuing as an evangelist until 1886 he was instrumental in establishing many Free Methodist churches in several states. During his ministry, which extended over a period of forty-eight years, he filled Free Methodist pastorates at the following churches: twice at Evanston, Belvidere, three times at Englewood, Chicago, Humboldt Park, Chicago, three times, Aurora, twice, First Church, Chicago, St. Charles, Elgin twice, Woodstock, and Glen Ellyn.

He answered the music of the Master's call April 2, 1932, at his home in Chicago. Brother Kelsey was of a sympathetic nature. His ministry was one of comfort, and he had a great interest in young people. He was not a specialist on side issues, but a practical, well-balanced, evangelistic pastor. He was pleasant but not a trifling joker. He related incidents, but was not given to telling funny stories. He was friendly, but not in a commonplace way or familiar, a faithful husband, a loving father and a Christian gentleman.

He leaves to mourn their loss, his wife, a son, John E., and a daughter Mrs. Emma Underwood. He had five grandchildren, two of whom survive him, and three great grandchildren, besides a host of other relatives and friends.

There were nearly twenty ministers present, who, at the close of the service, gathered around the casket and sang "Face to Face With Christ, My Savior."

The writer was assisted in the service by the resident pastor, Rev. R.G. Wilkin.

The earthly remains were laid to rest in Oak Ridge cemetery. -- E.G. Cryer.

Rev. Wykoff Kelsey, a former resident of Lowell and remembered by many of our people, passed away at his home in Chicago, Saturday, April 2nd, after a short illness from pneumonia. He was 79 years of age.