Frederick “Fred” Kelsey of Sag Harbor died on November 28 in Sag Harbor. He was 89.
He was born on March 12, 1934 in Paterson, New Jersey, to Ervin and Stella (Canova) Kelsey. His father died at the age of 48, leaving Kelsey to run the family hardware store.
He was a graduate of St. Peter’s University, where he was in the ROTC program, becoming a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve, and earned a master’s degree from Rutgers University.
After receiving his master’s degree from Rutgers School of Business, he worked as a financial account representative at the Burroughs Corporation, followed by a 20-year career with ADP.
At that time, his wife Lois spotted an ad for a marina and restaurant opportunity in the Hamptons. Taking a leap of faith, he pivoted his career path and purchased the former Lomonaco’s Restaurant in Noyac and the onsite marina, home to only 25 boats at the time The result became his legacy: the Inn at Mill Creek which, alongside his sons Jeff and Glenn, he and his wife operated for 20 years.
His unwavering work ethic was present in everything he did, his family said. The marina, now home to over 150 boats, continues to thrive under the management of his sons. His grandsons, Reed and Cooper, also spend their summers working there.
In his earlier years, he enjoyed skiing and was a member of the ski club. He was an avid car enthusiast and enjoyed boating on the weekends with his family. He also had a summer home in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, which he enjoyed for many years. He spent the winters in his later years at his home in Anna Maria Island, Florida, which he treasured.
He was most known for being honest, hard-working, kind and generous, his family said.
He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Lois (Sinkway) Kelsey; his son Gregory; and his sisters Teresa, Ann, and Patricia. He is survived by his sons Jeffrey (Suzanne) and Glenn (Jill); his brothers Richard and John; four grandchildren, Reed, Cooper, Kaitlyn and Jordan; and several nieces and nephews.
Services were held on December 2 at St. Andrew’s Church in Sag Harbor.