Kelso, Frederick W.

Frederick W. Kelso, of Canton, passed away April 16 at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Milton. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his profession, and the many people whose lives he touched through his work and friendship.

Fred was the beloved husband of Janice Davidowicz and the devoted father of Adriana Kelso and the late Amanda Kelso. He was a proud grandfather of Nariah and Honey, and he cherished the close bonds he shared with his family throughout his life. He is also survived by his sister Carol Kelso and her husband, Ted, his nephew Henry Kellogg and Henry’s wife, Judy, and their children Paul and Sophia, and his nephew Sam.

He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Margaret Delaney and brother-in-law Patrick Delaney. Those who knew him best will remember his steady presence, his warmth, and the quiet strength with which he supported those he loved.

Raised in East Brunswick, New Jersey, Fred graduated from East Brunswick High School and went on to distinguish himself academically at Tufts University, where he graduated summa cum laude. He continued his education at the University of Connecticut, earning both his master’s degree and his PhD in clinical psychology. His strong commitment to learning and his natural curiosity shaped the course of his professional life and reflected the seriousness with which he approached his calling.

Fred began his clinical training with a psychology internship at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in Boston. He later worked in the McLean/Bridgewater Program from 1978 to 1985, where he continued to develop his skills and deepen his commitment to mental health care. Along the way, he qualified as a forensic psychologist and became an important part of the Norfolk County Forensic Mental Health Team. His career advanced steadily, and he ultimately served as the senior forensic psychologist for Norfolk County from 1987 to 2017. In that role, he earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of many for his judgment, professionalism, and compassion.

Throughout his long career, Fred also shared his knowledge through teaching and contributed to the field through various published articles. He approached his work with diligence and integrity, and he was known for the thoughtful manner in which he balanced clinical expertise with empathy for the people he served. His influence extended beyond his formal positions, as he helped shape the understanding and practice of those who worked alongside him and those who learned from him.

Outside of his professional life, Fred enjoyed simple and lasting pleasures. He was an avid card player, especially when it came to Bridge, and he found great enjoyment in the challenge and companionship the game offered. He also loved gardening, taking satisfaction in the patience and care it required. A devoted sports fan, he followed the Celtics, Red Sox and Patriots closely, and he especially treasured the Celtics during the Larry Bird era. These interests brought him joy, conversation, and connection over the years.

Fred lived the last years of his life with a progressive neurological disorder, meeting that challenge with the same quiet resilience that characterized so much of his life. Even as his health declined, he remained surrounded by the love of his family and the respect of those who knew him. He will be remembered with affection for his intellect, his devotion to his family, and the many contributions he made through his work and his life.

Relatives and friends invited to attend a memorial service at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home, 455 Washington Street, on Saturday, May 30, at 12 noon.

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Posted by Canton Citizen on May 1 2026. Filed under Obituaries. Both comments and pings are currently closed.