KELSEY, Terrence “Terry” William Kelsey

Passed away surrounded by family on August 12, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born in Kingston, Ontario, on June 13, 1944.

Terry met his wife, Dorene (née Lowery), at Sharbot Lake High School, and they married on June 21, 1969. Together they built a life in Bowmanville and raised three children, Ian (Cyndee), Erin (Bruce Wilkins), and Owen (Krista), and became devoted grandparents to Morgan, Payton, Autumn, Hugh and Nora.

Terrence “Terry” William Kelsey built a lifelong career as an electrician and was deeply involved with IBEW Local 894, serving as President and Business Manager. He worked at major sites including the Darlington and Pickering nuclear plants, G.M. and St. Marys Cement.

Terry was a true, lifelong joiner and volunteer. He didn’t simply belong to organizations; he showed up, participated and helped. He was deeply involved with Maple Grove United Church for decades and, following its closure, found a new church home at Enniskillen Tyrone United Church. He and Dorene were also deeply involved with Camp Quin-Mo-Lac, where they served on the board and brought their grandchildren to Family Camp for many years. He was a longtime participant and volunteer at the Bowmanville Older Adult Centre, where he made coffee, prepared meals, helped with fundraisers and fixed whatever needed fixing. He was also involved with the Clarington Cycling Club, Baseline Community Centre, Canadian Club, Bowmanville Horticultural Society, and numerous other community activities.

Cycling was a major part of Terry and Dorene’s retirement. They cycled throughout Ontario and Quebec and made five bike-and-barge trips in the Netherlands, including a trip celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. Terry also loved hunting, fishing, travel, good food and spending time with friends and family.

Terry was warm, funny, generous and dependable. He accepted all invitations, got involved and was always willing to lend a hand. He had an enormous circle of friends and was known for showing up for the important moments, helping others and working at something until it was done. At so many of the places that became important to him, he was known simply as the man who made the coffee. He will be remembered with love by Dorene, his children and grandchildren, his siblings and extended family, and his many friends.

The family is deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff of Lakeridge Health Oshawa for the compassionate care Terry received during his final days.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Enniskillen Tyrone United Church, 2702 Concession Rd. 7, Bowmanville.