Obituary of Margery Johns Kelz

Margery Johns Kelz passed peacefully at the home of her son Jim and wife Kathy surrounded by her loving family 17 October 2017. She was born 02 February 1930 in Vandling, PA, the daughter of Elbert Russell and Martha Bloxham Johns. She is survived by her sons James Russell Kelz and wife Kathy Kelz of Pleasant Gap, William John Kelz and wife Ursula Kelz, of Pleasant Gap, and Russell Charles Kelz currently of Leesburg, VA. She is also survived by Jim and Kathy's sons Chris, and wife Sara, Travis and wife Kim; Bill and Ursula's sons Zack and wife Liz, Landon and Griffin; and Russ's sons Jack and Liam; as well as great-grandchildren Holden, Libby, Zachary and Cole. Margery is also survived by her loving brother William Russell Johns and partner Jo Ann Smith of Littleton CO. Margery was preceded in death by her former husband James Warren Kelz who passed away 19, September 2014. Margery was also preceded in death by her wonderful sister Marion Savige.  She was dearly loved by numerous nieces and nephews.

Margery graduated from Honesdale High School in 1947 where she was Valedictorian of her class. She was also the primary majorette of her high school class. Margery graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with highest honors in 1951. She returned to Penn State achieving her Master of Science degree in mathematics in 1958 and a second Master's degree in Counselor Education in 1973. Margery worked as a high school teacher for State College School district, as a Guidance Counselor for Bald Eagle High School and retired as a Guidance Counselor for Penns Valley High School in 1991. Margery always regretted retiring as she dearly missed her "kids" at Penns Valley.

Margery always loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who fondly referred to her as "Gram" and "GG". In her retirement years she spent countless hours looking at artwork on her computer and sharing her love of beautiful artwork with friends and family. Margery's trip to New York City with Kathy and Ursula at age 85 to the Metropolitan Museum of Art was a highlight of her later years. She also loved taking care of her canine buddies who were always at her side. Margery always loved visits from son's friends who fondly referred to her as "Ma".

Margery's family would like to thank Centre Crossings Hospice for the wonderful care she received during her last few days. In lieu of flowers, Margery would appreciate any donations to the ARC of Centre County, 1840 North Atherton Street, State College, PA, 16803. The Memorial Service will be held at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 South Atherton Street, State College with Celebrant Zac McDonald officiating on 22, October 2017 at 3:30 PM. A celebration of life will follow at Lettermans Sports Grill and Gastro Pub, 1031 East College Avenue, State College, PA, 16801 immediately following the Memorial Service. Mom's journey on this Earth is over. She will always be loved and never be forgotten. Rest in peace Ma.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.