Ken was a deeply respected member of the Physics Department and an extraordinary scientist, leader, and mentor whose presence shaped our community in countless ways.

Ken joined Washington University in 1985, where he built a distinguished career that spanned 40 years. As a scholar, he was renowned internationally for his pioneering research in materials physics, particularly his work on novel phases such as titanium-based quasicrystals and metallic glasses; experimental and theoretical studies of time-dependent nucleation in condensed systems; investigations of the relationship between developing short-range order in supercooled liquids and nucleation processes; and studies of the potential use of quasicrystals for hydrogen storage. 

In 2006, Ken was installed as the Arthur Holly Compton Professor in Arts & Sciences, a fitting recognition of his exceptional dedication to the university. Ken was also a fellow of the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences. He served as Chair of the Department of Physics from July 2007 through June 2012. As Chair, Ken strengthened the department’s research reputation, supported the recruitment of outstanding faculty, and fostered closer connections with other departments across WashU. His leadership left an enduring mark on the department’s culture and future direction. 

Following his tenure as Chair, Ken became the inaugural director of the Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, an interdisciplinary PhD program jointly led by Arts & Sciences and the McKelvey School of Engineering. Under his guidance, the institute flourished as a bridge between disciplines, uniting physicists, engineers, chemists, and materials scientists in collaborative research and graduate education. Ken’s vision and commitment helped establish IMSE as a model for interdisciplinary discovery and innovation at the university. 

Beyond his scientific achievements, Ken will be remembered for his warmth, integrity, and mentorship. He had an uncanny ability to listen with care, offer wise advice, and inspire those around him – in the classroom, the lab, and everywhere in between. His steady presence and genuine kindness made him a trusted colleague and a cherished friend. Ken’s legacy lives on in the students he guided, the collaborations he built, and the countless lives he touched within and beyond the department. 

Ken is survived by his wife of 49 years, Emily, and their two sons, Franklin and James, their daughters-in-law, Angie and Jillian, and their granddaughter, Aurora. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Emily and the entire Kelton family as we remember and celebrate Ken’s remarkable life. 

A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, Dec 13 at 10:30am, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 6800 Washington Ave. St. Louis, MO. In the meantime, we invite you to take a moment to reflect on the many ways Ken enriched the lives of those around him – through his friendship, his guidance, or simply his kindness. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Winger Food Pantry in care of Trinity Presbyterian Church.