Robert E. Keller

June 21, 2014
Leaving a message in an online condolence book more than five years after someone has died may seem an exercise in futility. But a futile gesture may nonetheless be sincere. I learned of Bob's passing only two days ago having thought that he was happily if perhaps restlessly retired. So much for social media.
My excuse for not staying in better touch with him may sound familiar to some: I was too consumed with my own life, both its pleasures and struggles, to make a...

The endangered species list just saw an original become extinct with the passing of Bob Keller. His love of sports was rivaled only by his passion for nature and its inhabitants. We enjoyed so many spirited basketball games through the years, some of them perhaps a bit too, uh, hypercompetitive, but boys will be boys. Generous to a fault, Bob's compassion for the underdog, the downtrodden, the lost souls in life, would have made Mother Theresa proud. Whether it was stray cats or people gone...

Oh Bob,...I just heard the news today of your passing. What a shock! I don't know where to begin...
I will always remember you and hold sweet memories of your generous heart, your silly sense of humor and wit, your kindness, love of cats and birds, nature. Thank you for making me laugh, for being one of my best friends so long ago, and forever. Again,...you are free and at peace. I imagine you are now a song bird. What joy! God bless you Bob, and thank you again.
With love and so...

Bob will be greatly missed by those who knew him and played paddleball and racquetball at Delta College with him over the years- He was known to have a great competitive spirit but at the same time knew how to have fun.

Bob, I will think of you often when I see the sandpipers playing at the water's edge or the giant pelicans diving into the sea. Be in peaceful harmony now with what you loved the most.

The mountains, I become part of it.
The herb, the fir tree, I become part of it.
The morning mists, the clouds, the gathering waters,
I become part of it.
The wilderness, the dew drops, the pollen,
I become part of it.
---Navaho Prayer

I don't really know what to say. But I'm sorry dorothy...we will miss him.

Sorry for your loss. Bob was a good teacher and friend.
Bob I'm back where the water doesn't get real cold..

Bob was one of the last true naturalists, a left over from a previous generation. He was truly devoted to all animals and the natural world, and the protection and conservation of all living things. His life was dedicated to teaching others about his true love and passion in life, biology. I'll miss the field trips together Bob. Your friend and colleague.