Bryan C. Keller

1961 - 2025

Bryan C. Keller

July 1, 1961 - November 27, 2025

Scottsdale, Arizona - Bryan "Buddy" Charles Keller, 64, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025. He was born on July 1, 1961, in Belleville, Illinois. Bryan was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, colleague, and friend whose life was defined by unwavering love for his family, steadfast loyalty, and a gentle compassion that reached far beyond his closest circle.

He is survived by his devoted wife, and high school sweetheart, Kelley Susan (Cook) Keller of Scottsdale, AZ and their sons, Jake Bryan Keller and Clayton Davis Keller, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Sherry (McCullough) Simpson; brother, James Keller; sister, Carrie Keller, and her daughter Eilla; sisters-in-law, Lisa Thouvenot, Marla Millonas Smith (Gary), brother-in-law, Randy Cook, and family members Brian Simpson, and his children, Reece and Emma.

Bryan was a cherished uncle to Sarah (Doug) Putkowski and their children, Charlotte and Cecilia; Rachael (Nick) Fannon, and their children Frankie and Quinn; Jessica Keller; Ashley and Jarin Dunnigan, and their children Isaac, Audrey, and Emmett; Adam and Christine Thouvenot and their son, Ethan; Neal and Alissa Thouvenot and their child, Hailey.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Geree Ann (Thompson) Hansen and Virgil "Bryan" Keller (Mary) and his father-in-law, William "Bill" Simpson.

Those who knew Bryan will remember his fierce loyalty, and his incredible ability to show up wholeheartedly for the people he loved. Bryan carried his faith quietly but deeply. He dedicated his life to giving his children every opportunity possible – whether it was a new hockey stick or the support they needed to achieve their dreams. One of his family's proudest moments came in 2016, when his son Clayton was drafted in the NHL. It was a triumph built on years of family dedication, sacrifice, and shared passion. If you met him, you most certainly heard him bragging about his son Jake, a soon-to-be graduate of Ole Miss University, and his son Clayton who plays in the NHL.

Bryan also treasured the time he spent golfing with his sons, especially in Scottsdale. Fittingly, he enjoyed a beautiful day on the golf course the day before his passing.

A graduate of Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville with a B.S. in Accountancy, Bryan began his career in 1990, with Rubin Brown, (his second family), eventually becoming Partner-In-Charge of the Real Estate Services Group. He was deeply proud of his work in advancing low-income housing and federal and state historic tax credit programs. Frequently invited to speak at national and state conferences, Bryan made a meaningful impact on communities across the country. His tenacity, expertise, and work ethic were widely admired.

Community Involvement:

Former President & Executive Committee Chairman, Southern Illinois Ice Hawks Youth Hockey Association.

Former Treasurer & Board Member, St. Louis AAA Blues Youth Hockey Association.

As he neared retirement, Bryan was excited to rekindle his teenage passion for cars. Memories of his cherished 1981 Z28 in high school reignited a love for fast cars, racing, and restoration. He found joy in modifying, racing, and showcasing his cars on social media. Bryan always gave 110% to whatever he did. He looked forward to race nights in Arizona, more golf with Clayton and Jake, and more hockey games.

Bryan lived life with complete enthusiasm – loving deeply, giving generously, and embracing every passion with unmatched dedication. His absence leaves a profound void, but his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd, in Fairview Heights, IL.

Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL, with Mark Burgdorf officiating.