Richard Charles Keller

Keller, Richard Charles
October 6, 1945 - January 12, 2018
Richard Charles Keller, age 72, formerly of Rye, NY, made his "final voyage" to be with Jesus on January 12, 2018. Son of Rita and John Keller of Rye, he leaves behind his devoted and loving wife, Jackie, his two amazing daughters, April Metz of Bradenton (husband Nicholas Metz), Laura O'Connor (husband Mike O'Connor) and two beautiful grandchildren, Ava Metz age six and Patrick O'Connor age six, the sunshine of his life. Richard's only brother, John Keller and his partner, Larry Lown of Massachusettes and John's four children, Nan, Maggie, Josh, Ben, their spouses and children, along with cousins Martha Parry, Lucienne and Charles Robinson, their children and his devoted sisters-in-law, Bobbie and Toni Barosky and Marianne Glombiak.
Richard graduated from Rye High School and earned his BS in Engineering at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. He sailed for three years on large steam-engined cargo vessels coming ashore and working for several shipping companies in the New York, New Orleans and Houston areas taking early retirement at age 55 achieving the prestigious position of Senior Port Engineer for Sea-Land Service.
During his high school and college years and beyond he ran professional track achieving gold medals in the 100 yard dash and broad jump for the Penn Relays, AAU National Championship, National Scottish Game and many more. He still holds the track record both in his high school and college. Richard's accomplishments include being elected to the seat of councilman in Sea Bright, NJ, two terms on the Board of the MEBA (Marine Engineer's Benevolent Association) and being honored with placement in the Hall of Fame for track at his college, USMMA. He earned his pilot's license in his twenties and was an avid participant in golf and tennis. Richard loved music and was an accomplished trumpet player as well as proficient on both the electric and accoustic guitar. He loved the ballet and a proud moment was meeting Rudolf Nureyev after Nureyev's first performance in NYC.
Most of all, he loved the sea. His fondest memories were sunsets on the beach in Destin, Florida with his three girls sipping champagne and toasting "One-eyed Willie." Richard was a deeply religious Catholic and a truly HONEST man. "Sail away into the sunset until we are together again my darling – you deserve rest, happiness and so much more."
Donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice for their loving care. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Thomas More Church, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota.