James Elmer Keller, 93, went to be with his Lord on Friday, October 16, 2020 at 9:43 a.m. in Northlake, Texas.
James was born on June 22, 1927 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Goldie (Micaels) and Elmer Keller. He graduated from Tyner High School in 1945. He proudly answered the draft following high school and served for two years in the U.S. Army.
He was employed by Studebakers for 17 years till they closed their doors, leading him to Chicago for a degree in radio and television at DeForester Electron School in 1950. There he met the love of his life, Evelyn R. Russell, at American Canning Company. They would marry on October 21, 1951 in Teegarden, Indiana with a home wedding, and then residing near US 6 and US 31. He would work for A.M. General in Mishawaka for 30 years as an electrician before his retirement in 1996.
James enjoyed gardening, traveling, and serving his neighbors. Before moving to Texas to be near his daughter, grandchildren & great grandchildren, he was a member of Lakeside Baptist Church in Lakeville.
He is survived by his daughter: Kathleen (Hank) Gamez of Northlake, TX, and son, David (Bonnie) Keller of Bristol, IL; 6 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren. As well as an honorary son & daughter: Butch & Paula Stokes. James was preceded in death by his siblings: Bob, Vivian, John, Jerry and Janice, & Jack; and a grandson, Joshua.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday October 23, 2020 at 12 p.m. at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth with Pastor Mike Poole officiating.
Burial will be in the Southlawn Cemetery in South Bend, Indiana with Military Honors.
PLEASE NOTE: For your protection, the entire funeral home staff will wear masks. It is mandated that family members and their guests do so as well.
Mary Lou Evans says
Last of a great generation, wish we had been closer the last couple years. I just wanted to hear your voice one more time. Thoughts and prayers are with his children and grandchildren plus all his nieces and nephews that love him so much. Love Mary Lou
Harold Kaiser says
So sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. Due to the COVID-19, we will not be attending the services. He was a guy, he had a heart of gold. RIP Jim. Harold Kaiser & family.
Cheryl Morey says
Keller Family,
I remember Jim as a kind man. Always a smile and a handshake. I first met him in the 70’s when I began attending the same church in Mishawaka. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Becky Donahue says
I am so sorry to hear about Jim, I met him when Evelyn was ill and he was the caregiver. He was such a gentle and quiet man, taking wonderful care of his family. I am so glad he was able to spend time with Kathleen and family.
suzanne gibson says
WE THE MEMBERS OF THE VFW AUXILIARY 1162 IN PLYMOUTH INDIANA
ARE SADDEN TO HEAR OF JAMES PASSING OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS
GOD BE WITH YOU ALL
SUZANNE GIBSON
VFW AUXILIARY 1162 CHAPLAIN
vfwpost1162@gmail.com