David M. Keller, Sr.
July 15, 1942 – February 3, 2024
VISITATION: Sunday, February 18, 2024, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m., followed by a VIGIL SERVICE at 3:00 p.m. at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 1920 N. 102nd St. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Monday, February 19, 2024, 11:00 a.m., St. Leo the Great Catholic Church. Interment, Resurrection Cemetery with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be donated to St. Pius/ St. Leo’s tuition assistance program, St. Leo’s parish, Marian High School, or the Siena/Francis House.
To view a live broadcast of the Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
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David Michael Keller Sr. was born in Des Moines, Iowa on July 15, 1942, and peacefully went to heaven surrounded by his family on February 3, 2024.
Growing up in Des Moines, he met his future wife, Marilyn Ryan, when they were both in third grade at St. Augustine. After four years at Dowling High School, playing football and serving as class president, Dave attended Creighton University graduating with a BSBA. His love of all things Creighton extended well beyond basketball, his Delta Sig fraternity and an MBA; the best takeaway was his many, many close lifelong friends. Dave and Marilyn were married in 1964 and had two wonderful children, Dave Jr. and Maureen.
In 1964, Dave received his officer’s commission in the U.S. Army, moving to Fort Knox, Kentucky where they lived for two years. Dave served for 28 more years in the US Army Reserves retiring in 1994 as a Colonel. During his service, Dave received many honors, notably two Legion of Merit awards and a Meritorious Service Medal.
His business career was in banking, insurance and for the last 25 years as Chief Marketing Officer for four different AAA Clubs in the midwest. Upon retiring from AAA Missouri, they moved back to Omaha.
Living out his faith through serving others was very important to Dave. He served as Board President for both Marian High School and St. Pius/St. Leo School, and as a board member for Creighton University College of Business Administration, American Red Cross (where he proudly donated over 22 gallons of blood), the Optimist Club and the Rotary Club.
In retirement, he became more active visiting nursing homes, taking communion to shut-ins and attending as many sporting and school events of his beloved grandchildren as he could. He and Marilyn also enjoyed being active in the Ignatian Volunteer Corps.
Dave treasured lifelong friends and always looked for opportunities to make new ones. He made sure everyone felt welcomed and valued in any gathering. His favorite ways to spend time – golf, travel, volunteering, and visiting family and friends – were always enjoyed with his best friend, Marilyn. As physical challenges limited his mobility and well-being later in life, he never complained and always found ways to encourage those around him.
He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 59 years, Marilyn; son, David Keller Jr. (Erin) of Omaha; daughter, Maureen ( Rob)
Vischer of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Quinlan (Brian), Jacob, Colin (Rachel), Emma, Sophia, Lila, Ava and Keegan; great-grandchildren, Levi and Elijah; sister Margaret Puig of Gig Harbor, WA; many loved sister-in-laws; nieces; nephews; cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Pauline Keller of Des Moines; brother, Chris Keller of Dayton, Ohio; twin sister, Mary Ann;
brothers- in-law: Dick Ryan, Dennis Ryan, Kevin Ryan, and Francis Puig; sister-in-law, Julia Keller.
13 Comments
Aunt Marilyn, Dj and Maureen and families, our deepest sympathies at the loss of Uncle Dave. He was a wonderful, vibrant and generous person, a lot of fun in every situation. We loved him, and we love you. However, we trust and believe he is with Jesus now, and that gives great comfort and blessing. Much love, Laura (Keller) and Russell Haney
Our special cousin is now on his way to heaven. They don’t make good men like Dave anymore!!! A genuine good person inside and out. You knew you were loved when you were around Dave. Always uplifting and always close to Our Lord. Lots of love and prayers–Steve, Sue, JR, , Paige, Tom and Terry
A good man and a special person…our thoughts and prayers are with you, Marilyn and family.
Dave was an absolute gentleman in the manner he conducted his work and how he engaged in personal relationships. I was privileged to know him at work and then continued a friendship over a number of our retirement years . I always admired his devotion to his family, his faith and extended relationships.
Perpetual Prayers for COL Dave Keller. He was a true leader. His concerned for the soldiers was reflected in finding solutions with them and going to bat for them.
So sorry to hear about Dave. He was a true gentleman and good friend for many years. We always enjoyed his newsy Christmas letter and he was so proud of his family. May God bless you all during this sad time.
Prayers for you all!
Marilyn and family, I was saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. He touched so many people in such a positive way throughout his life. Dave’s genuine caring for people was always evident. My condolences and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Dave Keller was one of the finest men God put on earth. His genuine goodness was evident when I first met him when I was in high school. He’d just finished his freshman ear at Creighton, and he was kind and friendly to a younger boy. I realized then that he was a special person. A few years later he was my commander in Creighton’s ROTC. He was uncommon because he was such a positive, encouraging leader. I’m glad that he had a long military career. His soldiers benefited greatly from his kindness and intelligent direction.
Our paths crossed later when Judy and our family moved close to Dave and Marilyn. The Kellers were an exemplary family, and Dave was such a good man as a husband and father. We had some fun times too-remember “The Hunks” at St. Leo’s?..or that goofy water ballet?
These last years were tough. Dave was tough. He persevered through pain and constant discomfort that I cannot imagine while giving love and encouragement to all-around him. He was a gift from God to all of us lucky enough to have him in our lives.
Dave, I pray that I get to see you again, for then I’ll know I’m in heaven.
Marilyn, DJ, Maureen and the rest of your family: I am so very sorry for your loss. It has been too many years since I have seen your dad but growing up I looked forward to your family visits with us. Your dad was always such a warm and welcoming presence interested in supporting whatever I had going on in my life. I know he was also a huge role model for my dad who loved his so much. I hope they are now in heaven together getting reacquainted with so many people that we have lost. All my love to you during this difficult time.
David and Erin – Our thoughts and prayers go out to you both and your family in the loss of your dad. Our deepest sympathy and condolences.
Marilyn and family, we were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences. We were so blessed to live next door to you both when you moved back to Omaha. It was fun learning Dave and I had so many mutual friends at AAA. Dave was always so friendly and kind. It was a blessing having such wonderful neighbors. Dave will be missed. Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Genuine, caring, warm, friendly, kind, encouraging, and welcoming…..all those things people have said here. When you were spending time with Dave, you felt like the only other person in the room with him. Warm and caring were the words I was going to use. A salute to the Colonel from an enlisted guy!
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