Dow Retiree - Kelton Thomson

Kelton Thomson lives a Hall of FAME lifestyle through his volunteerism – FAME as in Fit, Alert, Mobile and Engaged. He works with two volunteer organizations dedicated to constructing and repairing homes for those in need – Habitat for Humanity and The Carpenter’s Hands.

Kelton joined Habitat in 1999 after retiring from Dow’s Texas Operations in Freeport. He has helped build 60 houses in and around Lake Jackson, Texas. As a member of The Carpenter’s Hands, he helps repair homes and build wheelchair ramps for elderly and disabled residents of Brazoria County.

Keeping Fit, Alert, Mobile and Engaged

His construction work keeps him FIT: He climbs on top of the houses to do roofing work, and he crawls underneath to do plumbing installation and repair. He has the strength to work with construction materials and the endurance to put in a full day at any job site.

Kelton’s volunteer work keeps his mind ALERT by learning new skills. He has earned his plumber’s apprentice license and has become quite adept at electrical work. In fact, he has learned so much about construction that he was able to be his own general contractor for a guesthouse that he and his wife, Dorie, built on their property.

Kelton works with Dorie to stay MOBILE by remodeling and maintaining their own home and property – three acres with 180 trees! When he’s not doing construction work, Kelton rides with the Brazosport Bicycle Club. He is the oldest active member and participates in club rides two to three times a week, logging more than 3,000 miles per year. He also enjoys hunting and fishing, and he is active in the upkeep and protection of Lake Jackson, for which the city is named.

Kelton also stays ENGAGED through other projects. He is a mentor for Faith in Action, a program where high school youth participate in charitable work projects. By sharing his skills and experience with young people, Kelton is helping the next generation learn the joy that comes from giving of oneself. He and Dorie help with the annual fundraiser, where Kelton cooks wild game and Dorie does table decorations. He also helped convert an old church building into the House of Hope, a place for needy children to go after school for shelter, mentoring and care.

Kelton’s Secret: a Balanced Lifestyle

So what is Kelton Thomson’s secret to total health? The key, he says, is a lifestyle that balances fun, volunteerism, relaxation and activity. And that’s what makes him a member of the Dow Retiree Health Hall of FAME!