Jerry Bud Kelso

Jerry was born in South Dakota and grew up in New Underwood with many happy adventures in the Black Hills with his brothers and cousins. Early on Jerry spent much of his time in many different sport activities with boxing and baseball, his primary focus. As a young man, Jerry moved to Southern California and eventually started working at McDonnell Douglas. He loved the aerospace industry and played many roles at the company eventually working in procurement as Senior Manager of Raw Material and Outside Manufacturing. His expertise in sheet metals and machining was his professional legacy, as he eventually owned a machine ship and then Dakota Moon Enterprises. Not only was DME a significant contribution to the aerospace consulting industry, but also a platform that launched several family careers in aerospace.

Jerry was a loving and honest son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He was always the soft-hearted father that allowed his children the freedom to spread their wings and try each unique path in life. Jerry was extremely proud of all his children and grandchildren. He was spiritual in many significant ways; however he did not talk about it. But his approach to family, friends, and strangers was to always lend a helping hand. His generosity was unlimited and although he did not follow an organized religion, he always treated his fellow man as he wished to be treated. In his retirement years, Jerry loved playing golf, especially with his son Jon and his grandson Cole. His favorite spot in the world was Maui, which he enjoyed yearly with golf a major highlight of his trips.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Mary Kelso; his daughter Jacquelyn Ruth Seeley (Scott), his son Jerry Jonlee Kelso (Jessica), his son Joshua Benjamin Kelso (Hugo), his daughter, Jonika Elizabeth VanBrill (Hans); his son Jeremy JamesLee Phillip Kelso; his grandson, Cole Seeley (Madison) and his granddaughter Presley Kelso. Additionally, he is survived by his brothers Jesse (Irma), Jimmy (Joyce), and Jody Kelso (Julia); Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Edison Lee and Vera Kelso.

Memorial Service – A Celebration of Life is being held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 13, 2025, at his home 77 Teton Pines Drive, Henderson, Nevada.