Published in the April 27, 2018 edition
EPSOM, N.H. — George R. Kelloway, Sr., 90, of Epsom, N.H., and formerly longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 20, 2018.
George was born on April 17, 1928 in Winchester, one of ten children of the late William and Gertrude (Parsons) Kelloway. Raised in Wakefield, George enlisted in the United States Navy at age 17 before graduating from high school. He served his country proudly during WWII as an Engineman, 3rd Class. Following his honorable discharge, George was married to Gladys Stone and they lived in Everett and Malden before settling in Melrose to raise a family of three.
George worked for MIT/Draper Labs as a Master Electrician for many years. With great dedication to his trade, expertise, and a strong work ethic, George assisted in the design and installation of classified “clean rooms.” He loved his working career but retired at age 51 due to health complications. With a strong desire to continue working and with his Melrose ties, George found a position as a volunteer at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital. George again dedicated himself to his job, volunteering for over 30 years at the hospital, and generously donating nearly 6,000 hours of his time and presence.
George was a genuine, sociable, and humble man who found great joy in developing new and old relationships. With his easy nature and good sense of humor, George was well loved and served as the unofficial Mayor wherever he was. Whether in Melrose at Mother’s Pizza, or in Epsom, N.H. at the local coffee shop, friends and neighbors gathered around George for good conversation and a laugh. For years, he made a positive impact in Melrose as a hospital volunteer and later in Epsom, N.H. as he organized and completed the restoration of the town’s veteran memorial.
George had a love for Cape Cod, especially Buzzard’s Bay where his family had roots and he enjoyed fly fishing. While in Melrose, George served the community as an Alderman for the City of Melrose. George also enjoyed watching the Red Sox and had an interest in the CB radio. In his free time, he organized local meet-ups and cookouts to socialize with other CB enthusiasts for several years.
George will be remembered as a gentle, kind soul. His love for family lives on through the next generations who now have George as the family angel. George will be missed but his memory will carry on.
The Kelloway family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the care and compassion received from the nurses and caregivers of the Concord Regional VNA.
George was the beloved husband of the late Gladys B. (Stone) Kelloway with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Devoted father of Ron “Blue” Kelloway and his wife Ruth of Exeter, N.H., Laura P. Kelloway and her companion Jack McLaughlin of Abington, and David S. Kelloway, Sr. and his wife Mary of Epsom, N.H. Dear brother of Gertrude Alley of Melrose, and the late Ralph, Ernest, Alva, Matthew, Mildred, Mary, William and Walter. Cherished grandfather of 11 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather in honor of George’s life for a Graveside Service at Wyoming Cemetery, 205 Sylvan St., Melrose on Thursday, April 26. Military honors were presented by the US Navy. Gifts in George’s memory may be made to Concord Regional VNA, 30 Pillsbury St., Concord, NH 03301 or the American Legion Post #112, 1044 Short Falls Rd., Epsom, N.H. 03234. For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
