In Memoriam Larry Kelpke 1942-2017

I regret to inform you that long-time MidSouth member Larry Kelpke passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 3 after a long battle with heart disease. Larry was a friend to all and lit up the room with his smile and great sense of humor. He will be sorely missed.

Larry was a charter member of the MidSouth Chapter, and served the chapter faithfully as a board member with responsibility for maintaining the chapter's rooms in the Historic Leeds Depot. Larry had beautifully restored a baggage cart on display in the depot baggage room, and just days before his death he was working on restoring a baggage room scale for exhibit. His handiwork can be seen throughout the depot, including the Agent's Office and Frank Ardrey exhibit room.

A memorial service for Larry will be held at 10AM Saturday, February 18th, at Kilgore Funeral Home in Leeds, followed by a reception at the Leeds Depot. The Chapter will make a special tribute to Larry during the reception, and all MidSouth members and friends are invited to attend.

Larry's obituary and information on the memorial service can be viewed at http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=William-Kelpke&lc=7901&pid=184022490&mid=7281839.

Sincerely,
Marvin Clemons