Ross James Kelson, MD

April 9, 1950 - September 20, 2026

Ross James Kelson, MD, beloved father, granddad, doctor, farmer, friend, mentor, teacher, outdoorsman, and traveler, set sail on his next journey September 20, 2026, at the age of 76, surrounded by his spouse and children.

Ross was born on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950, in Ogden, Utah, to Dorothy Mitchell and Leon Kelson, the middle son of three brothers - Wayne Andreotti and Lance Kelson - whom he deeply loved and cherished throughout his entire life. Raised in Warren, Utah on the centennial family farm by his mother and grandparents, James Oliver Marriott and Estella Thomas, he formed countless precious memories and hilarious stories which he loved to share with his family. His relationship with his grandparents was nothing short of special and deeply valued. His relationship with his grandmother, who had a weak heart, sparked his desire to become a physician at the age of five. He spent countless hours with her at doctors’ appointments, determined one day to treat her condition.

Doctor Kelson pursued this dream by graduating with a B.S. in Chemistry in 1971 from Utah State University. While awaiting acceptance into Medical School, he embarked on what he frequently called a “side journey” working at the Atomic Energy Commission as a Nuclear Chemist near Idaho Falls, ID in 1971. He then attended and completed medical school at the University of Utah School of Medicine from 1972 to 1976, followed by an Internal Medicine Residency at University of Utah from 1976 to 1979. Ross began a private practice in Ogden, UT with his longtime partner, Dr. Gary Christensen. Together they were both highly respected physicians who served Ogden and the surrounding states and communities for over 30 years.

Ross cherished every moment in medicine while in practice and later while volunteering at the Ogden Rescue Mission after retirement. He loved getting to know every patient and their family, and was an inquisitive problem solver who relentlessly pursued all angles to improve each patient's quality of life.

While he spent his career caring for countless lives, his most profound pride, joy, and lifelong adventure was always his family. He wholeheartedly loved being a dad and made it a priority to be present for all of his children. Many times during his career, he worked only two or three days a week so he could devote more time to fatherhood, which he fundamentally believed was his ultimate calling here on earth. He spent countless hours teaching his children valuable skills and creating lasting memories through activities such as fishing, hunting, auto mechanics, cruising, backpacking throughout Europe, and horse pack trips. He was there for innumerable school activities and sporting events his children and grandchildren participated in.

Whether talking on the phone for hours or carefully crafting long, heartfelt messages, he was always willing to offer guidance, love, and advice on life’s many challenges - ready to provide a helping hand or listening ear in any situation.

Ross was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and found deep fulfillment in the friendships and callings he had throughout his life. He was firmly rooted in his faith and took great comfort and joy in the promise of the afterlife.

Ross was married three times and welcomed five children - or, as he liked to joke, five children that he knew of. He married Eonia Penna de Carvalho Kelson, with whom they welcomed their son Dax; Laurel Call Kelson, with whom they welcomed their three children Christopher, Rick, and Melissa; and Patricia Kellersberger Kelson, with whom they welcomed their daughter, Tristen. For the last nine years, Ross shared a very special relationship and countless adventures with his spouse, Walta Anne Rowley.

To his children, he was lovingly known as “Big Sir”: a nickname which perfectly captured both his larger-than-life presence, and the immeasurable love he held for his family. Ross had a gift of making everyone feel part of his family, and continued saving lives long into his retirement. He was extroverted, friendly and formed family-like relationships throughout the world, notably during his journeys in Portugal and Germany. Dad prioritized his time with family and seized every opportunity to take his children, two brothers, and many of his grandchildren to Europe, where he conquered every pastry shop and made lifelong friends.

Ross is survived by his children: Dax Kelson, Christopher Kelson, Rick (Jeanmarie) Kelson, Melissa (Mark Hendrix) Kelson, and Tristen Kelson; his cherished grandchildren: Bailey, Dax, Sydney, Aria, Jada, Colette, and Mara; his brothers: Wayne (Martha) Andreotti and Lance (Sheila) Kelson; and his beloved spouse Anne Rowley.

Our dad repeatedly stated everyone on the planet got to enjoy him longer because of the unremitting care and love from Anne this last decade. Our family could not be more grateful to Anne for the steadfast affection and support she has shown to all of us, and the extra time we were given with our father.

He is now joyfully reunited with all those family and friends who preceded him in death: namely his mother, Dorothy Mitchell, his grandparents, James Oliver Marriott and Estella Thomas, and his cherished childhood dog and companion, Ricky.

Dad, your presence in this world profoundly bettered every heart you touched. Your family and friends will forever hold dearly your love for life, your life lessons, your dedication to helping others, and the numerous adventures you shared with us. You always told us to “take a big bite out of life,” and we will carry that spirit with us always.

A small, private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Dr. Kelson’s belief in the power of education to change lives by supporting your local schools through a donation, a gift, or your time.