CRIDERSVILLE -- Robert E. Keller, 92 of Cridersville, passed away June 10, 2025, at Otterbein Cridersville. Bob was born April 26, 1933 in Terra Haute, IN, to Earl and Pauline (Watson) Keller, who preceded him in death. In 1992, he married the love of his life, Jo Ann (Schmalenberger) Keller, who survives him in Cridersville.
Bob was a 1951 graduate of South High School and a proud United States Air Force veteran. He graduated from Ohio Northern in 1961 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and he worked at Ohio Steel for several years until he went to work at the Powell Supply Company. Bob worked at Powell for many years, working his way up the ladder and eventually becoming the owner. He retired over 20 years ago after many years of hard work.
Bob was a member of the Rotary Club and a member and former president at Shawnee Country Club. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors at St. Rita's Hospital and a proud recipient of the Mercy Club Award. Bob was an avid golfer who shot a hole in one and he enjoyed playing cards.
Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Bob will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his children, Robert M. (Lisa) Keller of Lima, Andrew M. (Cathy) Keller of Bellefontaine, Kathi (Joe) Howard of Wapakoneta, Jon (Marilyn) Schmalenberger of Ayer, MA and Dave (Sarah) Schmalenberger of Mendota Heights, MN; sisters, Marlene (Brian) Karrick of Lima and Beverly Bradford of Lima; in-laws, Ralph "Bud" and Kati (Barone) Lemley.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his former spouse, Sandra Keller; daughter, Christine Marie Keller; sisters, Norma (Ron) Burkholder and Joyce (Joe) McCormick and his brother, Richard (Darlene) Keller.
Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, June 13, 2025 at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services - Shawnee Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Health - St. Rita's Medical Center.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Chuck & Peggy Lyon
July 4, 2025
One of the finest gentlemen God ever put n this earth. He truly cared for his fellow man. Loved by everyone that knew him, and will be missed. Jo, Bob was blessed to have you come into his life. You made a good team. God be with you and the family.
Tim and Tana Ewing
June 12, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Bob´s death, Jo. He was such a great guy. We send our deepest condolences. We have thought of you often and we hope you are doing well. Please get in touch when you´re able and we will catch up. 561-252-2625
Patrick O'Connor and Family
June 12, 2025
A true gentleman, Mr. Keller hired me for summer employment in 1983 and I admired his professionalism, sincere committment to listen and willlingness to lead on issues that needed strength, compassion and decisiveness; these observations and resulting life lessons are assets in my life. Mr. Keller was always upbeat, engaging and ready to be part of a positive solution. RIP, Mr. Keller.
Diana Kitchen
June 12, 2025
Bob hired me at Powell in 1988, and I worked there 16 years. I so enjoyed working for him and Powell.
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Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services - Shawnee1170 Shawnee Rd, Lima, OH 45805

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