Harlan Keith Kelso

November 9, 2009 – June 5, 2026

Harlan Keith Kelso was born on November 9, 2009, and spent his entire sixteen years in Benton City, Washington. He grew up surrounded by family and friends, in the same neighborhood he called home from the day he was

born. There he built friendships, made memories, and developed a love for adventure.

Harlan was a genuinely good kid. He was kind, respectful, and the sort of young man any parent would be proud to call their own. He loved his family, he loved his friends, and he was growing into a capable man who made his family very proud. Harlan was loved beyond measure.

His lifelong passion was riding ATVs. As soon as he could reach the handlebars, he was off looking for the next trail. Over the years, he logged thousands of miles, often with his sister holding on behind him as he led her over mountain passes, down forest roads, and through countless adventures. At just fourteen years old, he completed a 500-mile overland ride through the mountains of Idaho alongside family and friends. Those miles are memories that will always be cherished, because that was Harlan, covered in mud, a smile on his face, and nowhere else he'd rather be.

He was preceded in death by his namesake and great-grandfather, George Harlan Kelso, and his grandfather, Alvin Haug.

He is survived by his parents, Keith and Nickie Kelso; his sister, Emma Jean Kelso; his great-grandmother, Barbara Kelso; his grandparents, Duane and Nola Kelso, Mark and Tamera Butler, and Joy Haug; and a large circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him deeply. Among them, his cousins and closest friends, Tristan Enlow and Jason Bender.

There are roads beyond the ridge. Mountains beyond the mountains. And adventures beyond this life.

Until our next adventure, Harlan.