Kelso Mules - Murray, Kentucky

IN MEMORIAM Glen Scherffius Kelso December 23, 1919 - June 7, 2002 Mr. Glen Kelso, age 82, of Kelso Road, Murray, KY, died Friday, June 7, 2002 at his home. He was born in Calloway County, December 23, 1919 to the late Ernest Lee and Luna Scherffius Kelso. A retired farmer, Mr. Kelso was a member of the Church of Christ and an Army Veteran of World War II. He had judged and exhibited mules in more than 10 states. His favorite entries were in the hitch classes where he excelled in driving young mules and winning. In 1986, Mr. Kelso won the six mule hitch at the Michigan State Fair working a pair of 3-year olds in the lead, followed by a pair of yearlings in the swing, and a 2-year old pair at the wheel. Survivors include his wife, Faye Nell Craig Kelso of Murray; one son, Johnny Kelso and wife Sharon of Murray; three daughters, Judy Kelso, Janey Reynolds and husband Greg, and Joy Doron and husband Carl, all of Murray; as well as eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Glen Kelso's casket was pulled by a pair of sorrel mules (his favorite) from his home to the rural cemetery where he was laid to rest among many family members. Son Johnny drove the team, while the pallbearers (grandsons of Glen) either rode in the wagon or followed along mounted on mules. It was a most fitting end to a man's life that was totally devoted to mules.

This mule's head formed with mums was the continuation of a tradition started when a similar arrangement was made to decorate the grave of Glen's father, Ernest Kelso, also a mule man.

Glen Kelso, Fall 1998, with the last pair of sorrel mules he owned.