Thomas Duncan Kelsey, 65, a lifelong resident of Valdez, Alaska, passed away January 31, 2026, in Edmonds, Washington, from complications of pneumonia.
Tom was born July 26, 1960, in Seattle, Washington, and returned immediately to Valdez where he spent virtually his entire life. Deeply connected to his hometown, he
worked as a longshoreman, as a Teamster, and later in the Maintenance Department for the City of Valdez.
Tom loved Alaska’s outdoors and found particular peace at his cabin in Chitina. He enjoyed long walks – especially with his dogs – following a family tradition shared by his
father, Robert D. Kelsey, Jr., and his uncle, John T. Kelsey, who also valued time spent on foot in Alaska’s wide spaces.
In his last years, Tom faced significant health challenges, including dementia, and resided in a Washington care facility, where he received compassionate care from Sam and Anna Gan.
He was preceded in death by his parents and other close family members. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Conny S. (Montgomery) Kelsey in 2005, and
his second wife, Debra L. Liljedahl in 2024.
Tom is survived by his cousins, Bonnette L. Cooper and Martha Kelsey Rutherford, who served as his guardian in his later years. He is also survived by Debra Liljedahl’s son,
Michael, daughter-in-law, Nia, and grandson, Brody Liljedahl, all of whom he loved dearly and who took great care of Tom and Debbie.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 4:00pm at the Valdez, Alaska Cemetery. Friends and neighbors of Tom are welcome to attend. Following a graveside service, you are welcome to join the Family at the Valdez Dock Co building for light food and drinks to celebrate Tom’s life. The address is: 201 S Hazelet Avenue, Valdez, AK.