WWII veteran continues his service at Christ’s Table

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Memorial Day may be about remembering those who have died in service– but one former military member continues to serve in a different way.

Phil Kelton is a retired World War II veteran, but has continued serving not his country but his community, by volunteering once a week at Christ’s Table.

“Hes one of my loyal volunteers, he’s here every Monday,” said Tim Collins, Christ’s Table kitchen manager. “You can always count on Phil walking through the door at about eight in the morning, he’s there ready to start and he’s here until at least one in the afternoon when we’re done.”

Kelton is 93-years-old and served in the Marine Corps from 1942 to 1946, serving two of those years overseas. But he has spent the last 30 years, serving the community one tray at a time, since they opened their doors.

“So I was used to helping people, it’s just a part of my nature I guess. I’ve been at this since they started on November 1, 1986 and I started Feb 1, 1987,” said Kelton.

Phil spent 20 of those volunteer years delivering meals to those in need. He said that he just truly loves helping people.