Matthew J. Kelsch, 91, of Malta, New York, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at the Home of the Good Shepherd.

Born in Brooklyn to John Kelsch and Bertha (Malett) Kelsch, Matt grew up in a large and close-knit family, as one of eight children.  He went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army, later the 82nd Airborne, where he was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star for his courage and sacrifice in the Korean War.

Matt married the love of his life, Phyllis (Sepe) Kelsch, and together they shared 60 years of marriage until her passing in 2017.  They built a loving and supportive home for their three children and two grandchildren. Together, they believed in helping others, giving to numerous charities and sponsoring children in need around the world.  Matt spent his career at Islip Public Schools on Long Island, where he was a beloved social studies teacher, known for his fairness, patience, and the positive influence he had on generations of students.

Matt will be remembered for his quiet strength, his integrity, his deep sense of duty, and for the profound love he had for his family.  He is survived by his son, Matthew Kelsch, and his husband, Bob Henson; his daughter, Jodi Kelsch, and her husband, Stefan Kelsch, and her daughter, Natasha Mather; and his granddaughter, Renee Turner, and her wife, Paula turner; and his siblings: Paul Kelsch, Peter Kelsch and Mary (Kelsch) Buffington.  He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, his eldest daughter, Jane (Kelsch) Beausejour and his siblings: John Kelsch, Albert Kelsch, Thomas Kelsch and Michael Kelsch.

A burial with honors will take place at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY, on December 4, 2025, at 2:30pm.