Raymond Keller

Raymond J. Keller

Raymond John Keller, 84, passed away in Missoula, MT on May 28, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Rosa Keller, brothers Dr. Edmond Keller and Gustave Keller, and sisters Rose Rathgerber, Ella Buyer, Bertha Moser, and Betty Richert. Raymond is survived by his wife Caroline Keller, daughter Cynthia (Jim) Tripp of Missoula, son Kevin (Carol) Keller of Brady, as well as three grandchildren including Kevin's son Kaly Keller and daughter Khristina Keller, Cynthia's son Casey Kruger, one great-grandchild (Kaly's son) Corbin, and Raymond's three sisters Anita Kirschmann, Martha Galt and Vi Schneider. The family also wishes to give special acknowledgement to Ray's best friend, and brother in Christ, Bud Wornath and wife Vi who were considered by Ray to be as close to him as his own brothers and sisters and brought Ray much joy and spiritual peace with their visits.

Ray was born in Conrad, MT on Aug. 29, 1930 and grew up farming with his parents southeast of Brady, MT. He then moved to Missoula with his parents during high school where he met his wife Caroline of 65 years and they returned to his family farm north of Collins, MT. Ray and Caroline spent 45 years taking over the family farm after his parents retired to Conrad, living and raising their two children there until retiring at which time their son, Kevin, took over the family farming. Even after Ray retired, he was still dedicated to the farm and always came over to help when he could. When Ray and Caroline weren't farming, they played golf and traveled extensively for years visiting many places in the US and Europe until Ray's stroke in 2009. Ray was always smiling with a wonderful laugh and caring and considerate spirit and always put his family first. Wherever Ray went he always made people feel warm and welcome and was a person who, when you had a problem, was always supportive and would not leave you until all was well and his presence made the world a much better place. All those who knew him loved him and will miss him deeply, but we know he is with his Father in Heaven.

A memorial service is scheduled June 20, 2015 at Conrad Mission Church (205 2nd Ave. NW in Conrad, MT) at 11 am. In accordance with Ray's wishes, his ashes will be spread at the family farm. In lieu of flowers, financial donations can be made to Rocky Mountain Hospice or Bethel Baptist Church in Missoula.