Samuel Leroy Keller

Sam Keller was born on May 30, 1938, in Nowata, Oklahoma, to Loyd Lucas Keller and Edna Bell Swaim Keller. A devoted son, Sam remained close to his mother throughout her life, caring for her in her later years. He was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and his unwavering loyalty to family and friends.

A 1957 graduate of Nowata High School, Sam briefly attended Northern Oklahoma A&M University. Afterward, he began working for the Park family at Nowata Auto Parts as a counter parts salesman. He also served in the National Guard for several years.

When his family relocated to Albuquerque, Sam joined them, choosing to stay close to his loved ones. He returned to Nowata in 1966 and resumed working for the Park family, where he remained a dedicated and valued employee until his retirement in May 2000 at the age of 62. More than just an employee, Sam was considered part of the Park family. He touched the lives of many co-workers and customers with his generosity and friendship.

Sam was an avid gardener, known for growing tomatoes, green beans, okra, Swiss chard, spinach, turnips, and squash. He took great joy in eating from his garden but was just as happy sharing his harvest-often giving away green beans already washed and snapped.

He enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and bicycling. Sam processed his own venison and stocked his freezer with the results. He and his riding buddies often biked all the way to Lenapah and back. He also had a knack for small engines and loved working on-and riding-mini bikes, which he affectionately called "doodle bugs." In his younger days, he rode motorcycles and even went on road trips with the Park family.

Sam enjoyed cooking and preparing his own meals. He had a special love for baking cakes and cookies, which he gladly shared with friends and family. He also enjoyed reading cookbooks for inspiration.

A unique and gentle soul, Sam once had a pet tarantula named "Harry," whom he kept in an aquarium and fed crickets. Over the years, he also cared for several parakeets.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Edna Keller, and his brother, Loyd Keller Jr.

He is survived by his cousin, Ollie Murphy of Dewey, Oklahoma; and his close friends Brad and Colleen Park, and Tommy and Kelly Pearson, all of Nowata.

Sam will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit, and the love he shared so freely. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and cherished memories.

Graveside Services will be held 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Nowata Memorial Park Cemtery. Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Service of Nowata.