10-30-1926 ~ 5-24-2000
A.W. "Bill" Kelson died Wed., May 24, 2000 at his home. Bill was a well-loved, long-time member of the Salt Lake community, born Oct. 30, 1926 to June Shaw Kelson and Albert Hulbert Kelson. He attended the University of Utah, graduating with a business degree in 1950. He served in the U.S. Navy, returning to Salt Lake City to marry his love, Virginia (Jinnah) Paul on August 12, 1950.In 1962 "Banker Bill", together with his father, organized the Bonneville Capital Corporation, a holding company which purchased Industrial State Bank and Continental Thrift and Loan. Industrial State Bank later became Bank of Salt Lake, where Bill served as a member of the Board of Directors for many years. Bill combined his business experience and love of motorcycles as the CEO of Honda of Salt Lake from 1966 to 1980. He retired in 1984 to enjoy motorcycle trips, weekly excursions to Alta, tennis and family. Bill was an avid skier, accomplished pilot, and well-traveled motorcyclist. He loved animals, especially his dogs, and spoiled them terribly.
Bill is survived by his wife, Jinnah; son, Marty; daughter, Leslie; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law, and nine nieces and nephews, two of whom he helped to raise. His parents and a brother preceded him in death. Bill was a kind and generous man who will be deeply missed.
Arrangements for a private memorial service are pending. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent, payable to, Salt Lake County Animal Services-Education Program. Bill's many pets were adopted through this shelter. The address is 511 West 3900 South, SLC, Utah, 84123.