David J. Kelch

January 14, 1945 - October 27, 2020

KELCH, David J., age 75, of Oregonia, passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Southview Hospital. David earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Photographic Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Upon graduation, he came to work for Data Corporation in Beavercreek, which eventually became MTL Systems, where he served as chief scientist. His work included imaging and photographic science, serving as a government contractor for the Intelligence Agency of the Department of Defense, NASA and the Air force. In 2012, after more than 45 years of service, he retired from CACI, which had purchased MTL Systems. In 2004, he rediscovered his love for creative photography and started a business called WrenWorks, Fine Art Wildlife and Nature Photography, where upon he became a successful nature photographer. His work could be found at galleries, fine art festivals and shows. A do-it-yourself kind of guy, David took on any challenge and loved to problem solve, accomplish new things, and achieve. Highly intelligent, family oriented, funny, loyal, and loving, he had an agile mind and was known as a detail man. As a child when asked what he wanted to be, he said “a maker,” due to his love of fixing and building things. He was a skilled woodworker who enjoyed the challenge of making reproduction furniture and building the cabinetry, flooring and all other major interior wood components of his home. He even took on the challenge of trying to build wooden pipes for a pipe organ. His other hobbies included reading and seeking out adventures with food and wine. His favorite reading material involved scientific books, current events, mysteries and espionage novels. As an accomplished photographer, he was always seeking an opportunity to be around and within nature. He loved living in the woods overlooking the Little Miami River and enjoyed having wonderful neighbors. The times spent with family for 22 years during Thanksgiving at Hocking Hills will always be some of the fondest memories, along with semi-annual trips with friends and family to the Buckhorn Inn outside of Gatlinburg during April and October each year. He was preceded in death by parents Clifford and Gertrude Kelch. He is survived by his loving wife, Joann; his sister Paula (Thomas) Elliott; sister-in-law Judy (Terry) Russell; two nephews David and Timothy Russell; and niece Tracy Russell. 

 Due to the pandemic, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The family asks that you please take a moment to remember the fun times you have shared with him. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville is serving the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or the World Wild Life Fund. Condolences at www.stubbsconner.com.