Ashland--- Bertha "Kathy" Kelle, 83, peacefully passed away February 17, 2020, with her family at her side, at Aroostook House of Comfort, Presque Isle; She was born on October 23, 1936 to John and Gladys (Elms) Alcock in Griquet, Newfoundland.

Kathy is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Donald Kelle, daughter JoDean Carsley and her husband Douglas, son Michael Kelle and his wife Janet, three special granddaughters, Ashlee and her husband Jason, Abby Mae, and Logan and her fiancé Frank.  She is also survived by sister Enid, brother Jack, sister Alice and her husband Stan, sister Jean and her husband George, and sister-in-law Joyce.

Kathy was predeceased by her parents, brother Lewis, and infant brother Louis.

Kathy and Don were married on May 30, 1959 while Don was in the Air Force.  At that time, they moved to Klamath Falls, Oregon, where they lived for four years, where both of their children were born.  After over 20 years traveling together as a military family, military service took them to New Mexico, two 3-year tours in Germany, North Dakota, and ultimately to Maine in 1976, where they settled into retirement in Ashland.

Kathy involved herself into the community by volunteering with the Fire Department Auxiliary, Aroostook Area Agency on Aging, as well as having a lifetime membership in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.  She totally enjoyed her social times spent with the Portage Lake Red Hats, Portage Over 50's Group, and Ashland Area Senior Citizens Club.

Kathy's family extended their deepest appreciation to the loving, caring staff at the Aroostook House of Comfort for their compassionate care for her as she realized the end of her earthly journey and her 8 year struggle with gradual health decline.

A graveside committal service will be celebrated at 11 AM on Friday, May 29, 2020, at Northern Maine Veterans Cemetery, Lombard Road, Caribou. Arrangements are a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 114 Exchange St/PO Box 39, Ashland. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her name may be sent to: Aroostook House of Comfort, P.O. Box 867, Presque Isle, ME  04769