Walter Kellis, of Sarasota, formerly of New York City, died Dec. 15. He was 97.

Mr. Kellis spent much of his life as a devoted employee of UPS. He joined the company at age 16 as a car washer, leaving briefly to serve in the Army during World War II. Upon returning to civilian life, he worked full-time for UPS, while also attending business school at City College. Mr. Kellis worked his way up to regional vice president, retiring after 43 years.

In an online guestbook, dozens of former employees praised his dedication to the company and its workers; one dubbed him a “true brown-blooded UPS-er.”

In retirement, Mr. Kellis was a member of Sarasota Yacht Club and the Longboat Key Club and Resort.
Mr. Kellis is survived by his wife, Annie and his brother, Peter.

A funeral service was held Dec. 20, at Church of the Palms, in Sarasota. He was interred with military honors Dec. 21, at Sarasota National Cemetery.

 

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