Francis Dean Keller

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Francis Keller Obituary

Keller, Francis Dean
Francis Dean (Keller) Keller, 82, of Tempe, Arizona, passed away peacefully Jan. 31, 2009. Keller, as his friends called him, was a successful businessman, real estate investor, and entrepreneur. He was accompanied throughout his life by his loving wife of 58 years, Jo Ann Keller, and was surrounded by his loving family. Francis Dean Keller was born on Aug. 6, 1926 to Frank Keller and Mary Agnes (Wren) Keller of Grafton, Nebraska. He was a graduate of the University of Nebraska, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from Sept. 1945 to Sept. 1946. He married Jo Ann Hrdy on Nov. 23, 1950, and the two were long-time Tempe residents. He owned and operated the Student Book Center in Tempe, AZ since 1967. He loved his job. Eager students faces brightened every day. Keller was a devout member of the Catholic Church. His hobbies included reading, sports, and participating in the American Legion. Keller enjoyed following his Arizona State University Sun Devils?every sport at any time. He welcomed every opportunity to dine out with his family and friends. Keller enjoyed frequent trips to Prescott, AZ, and to the NCAA college baseball World Series in Omaha, NE. His parents and four brothers, Cletus, Anthony, Donald and Edward preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Jo Anne Keller, daughter Theresa Stohlgren and her husband, Bill, and three grandchildren, Valerie Vichules, Jalen Stohlgren, and Brenna Stohlgren, all of Tempe, AZ. A Visitation will be held on Wednesday February 4, 2009 at 6 p.m. at Carr-Tenney Mortuary, 2621 S. Rural Rd. Tempe, AZ 85282. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 11 a.m. at Church of the Resurrection, 3201 S. Evergreen, Tempe, AZ 85282. Interment will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1500 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 85204. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Email: [email protected]. Carr-Tenney Mortuary assisted the family with arrangements.

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Published by The Arizona Republic on Feb. 3, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Francis Keller

5 Entries

Lynda Manwarren

February 18, 2009

Jo, Therese and Family,
Keller helped me through some very difficult times in my life and I will always be thankful for his gentle guidance.He stepped in as my "Dad" when I needed him most. I am most appreciative that I was able to spend time with him in late January. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.

Veronica Jarmosco

February 3, 2009

Jo Ann, Teresa, Bill & family,
My deepest sympathy and prayers.
I met Mr. Keller 16 years ago when I was employed at Rio Salado Bank & he was on the 'Board'. He was such a gentleman & reminded me of my father back in Michigan.
My husband, Len, (before his passing) worked for Mr. Keller & Bill for 10 years, he said Mr. Keller always had a kind word for him & would give him advice on life.
He will be missed, he had a wonderful life.
(Roni)

Mert Donaho

February 3, 2009

What an awesome mentor he was to me. Not only a mentor, but like a 2nd Dad to me, as well. My work ethic is steeped in 2 great gentlemen, my dad and Keller. Dale and I are saddened at Keller's passing, and our thoughts and prayers are with Jo and Theresa. Keller was a most special individual to me. God Bless you all at this difficult time.

Randy Boles

February 3, 2009

As a young college student, I purchased my used books at the Student Book Center. I had hoped the markings, and notes could help me and reduce my study time. Little did I know going into that store would affect my life! Some years later as a young professional, I decided to set out on my own. I never expected that this quit, observant, and successful businessman, Mr. Keller as I called him then, would be my first client.

Over the years, we addressed many issues that life can bring. Francis and his family became friends. He and my father were close. I learned much from both of them. They were men of faith. Both men had insight, courage to take measured risk, and believed that success was the result of hard work.

Francis conducted his life, business and family with honesty and fairness. He quietly helped others when he saw a need. Most of all Francis was a kind man and my friend. I am blessed he was a part of my life. He will be missed.

From the Staff of Carr-Tenney Mortuary

February 2, 2009

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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