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Henry Ketterer Obituary
life-long music educator and student, died on Tuesday, June 1, 2010 surrounded by his family. Henry was the youngest child born to Mamie and Theodore Ketterer in Charleston, Missouri. He follows his siblings Joseph and Sister Beatrice Marie (Mary Helen) Ketterer, CPPS. He also joins his beloved daughter, Kathryn Rose Ketterer (1958-1987). After enlisting in the Army Air Corp. in 1943, Henry attended The University of Notre Dame where he received his B.A. in Piano Performance followed by an M.A. in Music Education. It was in South Bend, Indiana where he met Joan E. Hoar in a summer theatrical group. They were married in the Sacred Heart Church in Our Lady's Chapel on the Notre Dame campus on August 29, 1955. The following day, the newlyweds packed their belongings in a Plymouth sedan for Henry to accept a position as Band Director at Saint Mary's High School in Phoenix, Arizona. What follows is a career that spanned more than thirty-five years educating young people in music at St. Agnes School, St. Mary's High School, the Dysart School District, Luke Air Force Base, and the Creighton School District, where he retired in 1990. After raising six children and educating thousands, Henry continued sharing his love for music by participating in numerous community bands and choir groups. Henry marched in the Fiesta Bowl Parade with the "Play it Again Band" since its inception as well as performed in the Phoenix College Jazz Band, Phoenix College Community Band, Scottsdale Community Band, the Trombone Choir, and the Glendale Summer Band. He also lent his bass voice to the Orpheus Male Chorus, Choralaires Men's Chorus, Orpheus Emeritus, the Phoenix College Choir, and the church choirs of St. Thomas the Apostle and Our Lady of Perpetual Help. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan Ketterer, as well as his children Mary Ketterer Segall (Howard Zipser), Ted Ketterer, Bob Ketterer (Lori), Peter Ketterer, and Eileen Ketterer Benedict. He was also "grandpa" to his six grandchildren Nick Segall, Joanie Segall, Kyle Ketterer, Aaron Benedict, Katy Ketterer, and William Henry Ketterer. The names of the lives he touched through his music are impossible to list. We will forever miss the leader of the band. Visitation will be held between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday, June 10 at Whitney and Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E Indian School Road, with The Rosary to occur at 7 p.m. The funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 11 at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 4510 N 24th Street, with the burial to follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 2033 North 48th Street. In lieu of flowers, please continue Henry's tradition of donating to St. Vincent de Paul.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Henry Ketterer
Mark Johnson
May 13, 2025
Occasionally I will walk the dogs a little further than usual, and today I happened by a home which mailbox indicated the Ketterer family.
The name is uncommon, and the memory distant, but I had a band teacher some 40 plus years ago at Monte Vista Elementary School.
He was patient enough to put up with 2 years of my very feeble attempts at trumpet. He was humble enough to smile through our bands version of pomp and circumstance during grade School graduations. While I can't say that he had a huge impact in my life since then, seeing his picture brought back many fantastic memories, a smile to my face, and a tear to my eye.
Mary Segall
May 31, 2020
Miss you Daddy, so much!
Eileen Ketterer Benedict
June 27, 2010
Hello. This is Eileen. It is hard to come up with the words I want to say. I could just copy Katy. My father was everything to our family. The quiet Irish Man. Always had the right answers with the most incredible faith I have ever witnessed. I always knew he was special and I was in the presence of not only a gifted musician but the most admired man I know. He made me laugh a lot. People say I have his smile. I can only hope. I love you all and my dad would be smiling about all the good things said about him. Say Hi to Kathy for me. I miss you both so much.
JIM TOPE
June 22, 2010
I WILL MISS YOUR HAPPY FACE AT BAND REHEARSAL TIME. REST IN PEACE.
JIM TOPE
TUBA SECTION
SCOTTSDALE CONCERT BAND
Katy Ketterer
June 21, 2010
Henry Ketterer was my grandfather. I'll always remember him, and his contributions to my life. Thank you grandpa<3
Judy Castle
June 20, 2010
Hi Jean,
I played with Henry in both the Scottsdale Concert Band and the T-Bone Choir. It was an honor to play with him. I am so Sorry
Randy Roberson
June 14, 2010
Henry Ketterer taught me not only to read music, but also to play it musically. The 4 short years I studied under him at Monte Vista Elementary School made a life-long impact on me. This musical start lead to - among other things - about 20 years of performing and directing church music. That by the way is also how I met my wife of 31 years.
I don't need to tell you he will be missed. Just know there is a Guy up in Payson who was truly blessed to have known and been taught by Mr. Henry Ketterer.
Dorothy Bashkingy
June 12, 2010
Hi Jean: I am Dorothy (Drabek0 BASHKINGY I AM SO SORRY that we missed the funeral of Henry. I am not to good at using the computer so I don't get on it very often. I am so sorry to hear about this so late. I am sending my sincere sympathy to you and your family. Dorothy Bashkingy. I played the band with the girls of "57"
Bertie Chavez
June 11, 2010
Joan, Mary & Family:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It seems like just a few shorts months that I saw you. He had such a full life and shared his beautiful vocation with so many. We are all so blest to have shared in his life. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts, love and prayers are with you ...
Those wonderful band bell bottoms
Mary Ann Wenc Marc-Aurele
June 11, 2010
Dear Joan, Mary, Teddy, (Kathy), Bobby, Peter and Eileen,
Though I have called Mr. Ketterer, Hank, many times, it seems he will always remain, Mr. Ketterer. I was amazed as I participated at the Rosary and the funeral and afterwards at how much I missed when my husband died. I guess we are sometimes on auto-pilot at times like these. I realized what a beautiful gift we receive when our loved one passes. We turn to the joys we have experienced. These will always stay with us.
I thought Teddy was so right when he said we were all his favorite at one time or another--taking piano lessons from him, being in the band that first year he was at St. Mary's. I thought I was so "hot" because I got to be in senior band right from my freshman year! I remember what fun it was sneaking into the dances through the band room. During those years music became even more special to me. And the concert band was just an awesome experience as we actually performed with such heart. I have often thought that we are all instruments. The spirit blows through us and we create our own melody in harmony with the others as we live the amazing symphony of life. And to whom do I owe that to? Who nurtured this love of music and harmony with such a simple smile and unbending resolve that his students could "do it." Mr. Ketterer of course.
I'm not sure how he knew I could survive during that summer with the six kids while he and Joan were with the Orpheus in Europe!! Yikes!!
May the Lord bless and keep thee, one and all.
With love and gratitude for the gift that he was then, continued to be over the years and still is now,
M.A.
Stephanie Haag
June 11, 2010
Joan and Ketterer Family-I have been thinking about Hank and how I might describe him. I remember how he made me and all the kids in the neighborhood feel like we were one of the family-He gather the kids to him. It reminds me of how Jesus would gather the children to him and how Jesus was. And, that is how I would describe Henry. He embodied all the attributes of Jesus-loving, gentle, humble, kind, forgiving, and always teaching. He was a wonderful man and he left his fingerprint of love on my heart. He will be missed here on earth but heaven is rejoicing. I Love You All! My prayers are with you. The Rosary, Mass, and Graveside Services were amazing. I am priviledged to have been there. I know that Henry loved them too! Especially all the song!
June 11, 2010
Mary,
I was saddened to see your Father's obituary in the paper, but delighted to read about his wonderful Life !
When you and I were classmates at Camelback High I didn't know that music was his career. My mother was a music educator too. Growing up with music filling the house certainly enriched our lives, didn't it? Take care. Kim Donaldson Schaller
June 11, 2010
I've been with the SCC band for over 20yrs. Henry was a fine player and and all around nice guy. I will miss him and think well of him. My deepest sympathies to the family and all who knew him. He was one of those people who made the world a better place. Alan Paris, O.D.
Ted Ketterer
June 11, 2010
Thank you all for coming to the Rosary. It was awesome for us. And How about that MOTHER of ours?????? Totally took us all by surprise. Thanks Mom..
Steve Voita
June 11, 2010
Hank Ketterer was a stud. When I first saw him, he was riding his bike. My first thought as a third grader at St. Agnes was what the heck is this guy doing riding a bike like us kids? My dad wouldn't be caught dead riding a bike but there was Mr. Ketterer wheeling through traffic like a sesoned veteran (he was). This only made me want to know more about the dad who rode bikes. Over the years I have come to know Hank Ketterer through my own family and his daughter Mary, and our meetings at St. Thomas the Apostle after Church. He was the real deal. Kind, humble, and a devout Catholic. Hank Ketterer radiated a kind of inner peace and faith I still want to emulate today. He always had time to talk to me and ask me how I was doing etc. The entire Voita family gives their condolences to Ketterers and our prayers are with you now. Steve Voita AMDG
David & Trina Reeves
June 10, 2010
We give our prayers to the Kettterer Family. May God hold him in his hands. Good Blessings.
June 10, 2010
Mr. Ketterer, . . .I haven't seen or spoke to you in 50+ years, since graduation day at St. Mary's High School in 1959, but I have thought of you often. You had a unique, magical way of interfacing with your music students, instilling self confidence and, with your positive outlook and encouragement, allowing us to achieve what you already had the wisdom to know was inside of us. The lessons you taught us have manifested in a deeper appreciation of music, teamwork and respect. Thank you for your gentle patience and perseverance during those high school years. ~God Bless~ Tony Ritz '59
June 10, 2010
I had the pleasure of sharing music with Henry for the past twelve years . Always gentlemen, I will miss his smile.
Nino
Frank Darmiento
June 10, 2010
I played in the Scottsdale Concert Band with Henry for many years. He was one of the people I looked forward to seeing every rehearsal. In many ways, he embodied the true spirit of community bands--a talented musician who played for the joy of playing. I will miss his friendly greeting each week.
John Hobbs
June 10, 2010
I remember Mr. Ketterer from 50 years ago, SM Class of '58; and from a few years ago as a fellow participant in the Play It Again Band. He was a wonderful teacher, a tremendous family man and a supreme human being. So much good has come from his presence on earth. I will miss him more than I can say. Joan and family, you are always in my prayers.
Carole Wolf Castle
June 10, 2010
Dear Joan:
What beautiful memories all of us have who were blessed to be members of the SMHS band under Hank Ketterer! And you both have continued to influence our lives at reunions, weddings and baptisms. Your love and support has been so important through the years. Know that you and your family are in our prayers at this special time when Hank joins the heavenly choir.
Love, peace and blessings,
Carole Wolf Castle '57
John J Jakubczyk
June 10, 2010
My condolences to the family. May God bring you all consolation and remind you that we are all called to be with Him for eternity. Peace. I will keep him and the family in my prayers.
Colette Toronto
June 9, 2010
I played my french horn several years ago in Glendale Summer Band and Scottsdale Concert Band with Henry. He was always kind and friendly. He will be missed.
Kathy Myers
June 8, 2010
Luckily, I was priveleged to have a great conversation with Mr. Ketterer, or "Hank" as some of us lovingly referred to him when he was'nt listening (or maybe he was). I called him a few years ago.
At St. Mary's HS he talked me into playing baritone horn in concert season, changing from percussion during marching season. He told me I COULD DO IT. I listened - and I DID IT!! What a convincing teacher and a true gentle man. My association with him enhanced life and learning and love. He did love us even tho we gave him some anxious moments. Rock on, Mr. Ketterer!!! Kathy Knepshield Myers '59
Kay Lyons
June 8, 2010
In the mid-1980s, I had the honor of playing French Horn alongside Henry in the SCC Concert Band. No, he wasn’t First chair or Second chair; he let others fight that battle. He was content to play any part and play it well. Now I'm finding out he was really a converted trombone player! I will remember Henry fondly from those days in the SCC band and with the Choralaires.
Tom McDonald
June 8, 2010
I remember Hank as a co-teacher when I was at St. Mary's High School in the late 50's. He was always working with his band members and did such a tremendous job developing their skills. A wonderful person who will be missed by family and friends.
Mike Rincon
June 7, 2010
I was afraid when I found out I was going to be the only boy playing the flute in the Monte Vista band. But, Mr. Ketterer was very patient and understanding and did a great job with all the students. I don't remember a lot about those years, but I remember band.
Michael Viliborghi
June 7, 2010
June 9, 2010
Bounding into the band room at St Mary's High School in August 1954, I was determined to learn to play the trumpet. But, Mr. Ketterer needed trombone players, so trombone it was. That started a long friendship between the two of us. I, like many others I’m sure, thought that he took a special interest in me, first teaching me to play the trombone, and then mentoring me through my first solo recital. For my senior year I wanted to take a music harmony course. There was only one problem. None was being offered. So Mr. Ketterer, true to form, gave up his planning period to teach my buddy and me music harmony. This experience motivated me to go to college. Shortly after high school, our paths crossed again when I found myself repairing his students’ musical instruments in my first adult career as a musical instrument repairman.
Hank Ketterer was one of the most dedicated teachers and patient individuals I have ever known. He had a profound impact on my life. Our prayers are with him and his family.
Sincerely,
Michael Viliborghi, Phoenix, AZ.
Chris Hillyer
June 7, 2010
Thank You Mr.Ketterer, For teaching me. You will always be remembered because of the impact you had on so many lives.
Rest in Peace and God Bless Your Family!
Karen Hamill Pearce
June 7, 2010
I remember him as a kind and gentle man, but above all a devoted Notre Dame fan!
June 7, 2010
Mary, I only knew your father from what you shared with me. But knowing his lovely daughter, I know that he was a special dad.
My best to you,
Marcia Graber
June 7, 2010
Though he never taught me at St. Mary's, I was very aware of the respect he had from his pupils. I am so happy that Mr. and Mrs. Ketterer were able to attend our 50th year reunion of the class of 1958.
Please extend my most sincere sympathy to Mrs. Ketterer and the whole family.
Esther Mariassy Kmetty
Chris Cryer
June 7, 2010
Words can't express my sorrow for you at this time. I still have this wonderful visual of band practice with Mr. Ketterer at Monte Vista. I smile every time I think of it. He gave so much to so many.
Juli (Wright) Groff
June 7, 2010
Mr. Ketterer taught me how to play the flute at Monte Vista and what I remember most about him was that he never got impatient, with any of us, no matter how many times he had to stop and show us how to get the notes, etc. He was always encouraging and kind, and left a lasting impression on me about never giving up. Eileen - I've thought about you many times over the years; I am thinking of you now and sending my prayers to you.
Vincent Fauci
June 7, 2010
"Mr. Ketterer was my music teacher at Monte Vista elementary school,(I was class of 76) I remember i was forced to take the clarinet by my father, i didnt want to, I remember Mr.Ketterer makeing the class and learning music fun, I mostly remember his compassion and patience in teaching me, so today i will take my clarinet out and try to play a song for him" . God bless,
Sincerely Vincent Fauci
Phoenix Az
Stori Ruhter
June 7, 2010
I always knew Mr Ketterer had patience, because he put up with a lot during our Monte Vista band years - but now looking back as an adult I have such respect and admiration for him. He was always such a humble man, with a true passion for music and he always seemed confident that one day we would get what he was trying to teach us. I have such fond memories of those days... he certainly touched so many lives. Eileen, I love you and am praying for you and your family.
Mary Segall
June 6, 2010
I miss my Daddy very much. I know that he loved and was loved by many. Thanks to all of you for your kind words.
Thomas M. Walsh
June 6, 2010
Mr. Ketterer was a great influence in my life and I am sure in many others. I went to his band room with a friend, who was trying out for band and like the great salesman he was ,he talked me into the band to play the Tuba for the next four years. Oh the Rodeo Parade's the football games and the school assemblies where great because he made it fun and we tried to make it hard on him. I got to see and share some thoughts with him at our Class 50th Reunion.Class of 1958. I am sure our Lord will bless him for his dedication to teaching and sharing his talent with so many. In our senior annual the quote above my picture says " If music be the food of love play on" Thanks to him I have and will continue to do so.
To his family -Thanks for sharing him with us.
Lynn Banks
June 6, 2010
Mr. Ketterer and my father, who both understood the value of music and the arts in the lives of children, gave me my love and respect for music. His legacy as one of the great teachers and mentors will live within his family, students, and everyone that had the privilege of knowing him.
June 6, 2010
Dear Mary,
Shirley and I offer our sincere condolences for the loss of your beloved father Henry. He leaves a beautiful memory for you and your dear family.
You are in our prayers and thoughts.
With love,
Charlene Smith
Shirley Smith
Kerri Parscal
June 6, 2010
Thank You Mr.Ketterer, For teaching me and for Your Patience You were a Great Teacher. Rest in Peace and God Bless Your Family!
June 6, 2010
We tried his patience and he always responded gently and with understanding. He loved his music and we were blessed.
Richard (Dick) Turner, SMHS, Class of 1958
James Nico
June 6, 2010
Mr. Ketterer: You were my music teacher at St. Mary's High in Phoenix. We all wondered how you came up with the ideas for the Ball Games. You were a genius here and I am sure God is using you in His music Department as a leader. God Bless you always. Look for me I am coming. Jim Nico
Willena Conley
June 6, 2010
Mrs. Ketterer, my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Willena Dodt Conley
SMHS Class of '58
Mary McAllister
June 6, 2010
What a rich and full life! Mr. Ketterer was a fine example for all of us to emulate as husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher and upstanding Christian! God Bless Mr. Ketterer and his family.
Mickey Johnson Hegg
June 6, 2010
Thank you, Mr. Ketterer, for a job well done. It's hard to realize that it was fifty-five years ago that I first met you, when you came to St. Mary's High School, replacing Mr. Doug Corbin, who had moved on to California. Besides, you had come all the way from Indiana! God bless you for all your good music and guidance. May you rest in peace. Mickey Johnson Hegg
Mike Sikora (Tornquist)
June 6, 2010
He was an amazing man.
He will always be remembered because of his kindness, caring and dedication.
Larry Billar
June 6, 2010
Mr. Ketterer was a great band instructor, father, faithful example of Faith, and a second Dad to me. His son, Ted, continues to be a lifelong friend, as his family holds a special place in my heart. Heaven has a new band conductor.
Mike Cullumber
June 6, 2010
He was one of the few teachers who truly inspired me to keep at it until I was the best.
Ted Ketterer
June 6, 2010
Dear Dad, Pray for us!
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