Lifelong Valdez Resident Thomas Duncan Kelsey Dies at 65

Kelsey passed away in Washington state from complications of pneumonia.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Thomas Duncan Kelsey, a 65-year-old lifelong resident of Valdez, Alaska, passed away on January 31, 2026, in Edmonds, Washington, due to complications from pneumonia. Kelsey worked as a longshoreman, Teamster, and in the Maintenance Department for the City of Valdez, and was deeply connected to his hometown. He is survived by his cousins and his second wife's family, who cared for him in his later years.

Why it matters

Kelsey's passing marks the end of an era for Valdez, as he was a lifelong resident who embodied the town's outdoor-oriented culture and values. His death highlights the challenges faced by aging Alaskans who must relocate to the lower 48 states for care, as well as the importance of family and community support for the elderly.

The details

Thomas Duncan Kelsey was born in Seattle in 1960 but returned to Valdez immediately, where he spent virtually his entire life. He worked a variety of blue-collar jobs in the town, including as a longshoreman, Teamster, and in the city's Maintenance Department. Kelsey was deeply connected to the outdoors and often found peace at his cabin in Chitina. In his later years, he faced significant health challenges, including dementia, and resided in a care facility in Washington state, where he received compassionate care.

  • Thomas Duncan Kelsey was born on July 26, 1960 in Seattle, Washington.
  • Kelsey passed away on January 31, 2026 in Edmonds, Washington.
  • A graveside service will be held in mid-May 2026 at the Valdez, Alaska Cemetery.

The players

Thomas Duncan Kelsey

A 65-year-old lifelong resident of Valdez, Alaska who worked as a longshoreman, Teamster, and in the Maintenance Department for the City of Valdez.

Robert D. Kelsey, Jr.

Thomas Kelsey's father, who also valued time spent on foot in Alaska's wide spaces.

John T. Kelsey

Thomas Kelsey's uncle, who also valued time spent on foot in Alaska's wide spaces.

Bonnette L. Cooper

Thomas Kelsey's cousin, who served as his guardian in his later years.

Martha Kelsey Rutherford

Thomas Kelsey's cousin, who served as his guardian in his later years.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

A graveside service will be held in mid-May 2026 at the Valdez, Alaska Cemetery.

The takeaway

Kelsey's passing marks the end of an era for the tight-knit community of Valdez, as he embodied the town's outdoor-oriented culture and values. His story highlights the challenges faced by aging Alaskans who must relocate to the lower 48 states for care, and the importance of family and community support for the elderly.