Jim Kelton's Obituary
Jim Kelton, age 70, passed away March 9, 2015 in Fayetteville. He was born February 26, 1945 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
During Jim’s childhood in Fayetteville he discovered his love for writing, sports and music. In high school he was a pitcher on the baseball team and also played football. His successful newspaper career began in high school at the Northwest Arkansas Times covering sports. In 1963 he joined the National Guard, 142nd Field Artillery Regiment. That was followed by a year active duty in the Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He returned to newspaper sports writing in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and then in San Antonio, Texas. In the late 1960's he began covering music for the San Francisco Examiner. Meeting popular musicians of that time he made connections he would keep the rest of his life. In the early 80's he moved to Seattle with his family and began covering music for the Everett Herald. He did some freelance work and was always writing a new story. In the late 90's he moved to North Carolina where he did some documentary work. In 2000 he moved back to his home in Fayetteville where he attended the University of Arkansas, worked on a radio show and eventually retired. What Jim loved most was to share stories and music. He was a fun-loving, witty and charming man. A loving father, grandfather and friend. He will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his mother June Foster, daughter Alyson Fenton, granddaughter Harper Fenton and numerous cousins.
A memorial service will be held Friday April 10, 2015 at 2:00pm at Moore’s Chapel in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Arrangements under the direction of Moore’s Chapel.
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