Patrick Joseph Kelmelis, 79, of Winchester, CT, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Born on March 14, 1946, in Winsted, CT, Patrick was the son of the late Stanley and
Mary (Tarter) Kelmelis. He was raised in Goshen and graduated from Wamogo High School with the Class of 1964.
Patrick began his working life delivering milk and later worked in maintenance at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. He retired from the Forman School, where he was known for his dedication and quiet strength.
Together with his late wife, Maryanne, Patrick poured love and hard work into building their cherished log cabin in the woods—a true reflection of their dreams and resilience. Patrick was a kind and selfless man who found joy in the simple things. He loved nature, DIY projects, deer hunting, football, and hosting his annual pig roast. Above all, he treasured time with his family. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Shannon Kelmelis; his stepdaughter, Tara Tebo, and her husband, Kirt; his stepson, Lance Dopp, and wife Kara, and his grandchildren, Ethan, Genevieve, Easton, and Lee. He also leaves behind four sisters: Marva Leifert and her husband John (Jack), Mary (Mimie) Grustas and her husband Joseph, Kathleen Kelmelis of St. Petersburg, FL, and Martha (Mort) Ryan and her husband Peter of Wethersfield.
Patrick was predeceased by his brothers, Paul (Skip) Tarter, Stanley (Stosh) Kelmelis, and Michael Kelmelis, and his sisters, Jane Dagenais, Patricia (Tisha) Schuster, Barbara Dreger, and Anna Kelmelis. He is also remembered by many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive relatives and friends Tuesday, September 16 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Phalen Funeral Home. www.phalenfuneral.com
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