Gerald R. Keller

Gerald "Jerry" Richard Keller, age 82, passed away suddenly on January 4, 2026. Born in Chicago on May 9, 1943, Gerald lived a life marked by commitment, service, and warmth. A resident of Crest Hill for the past 21 years, formerly of Chicago, Jerry was a beloved husband, dedicated public servant, and cherished friend, he will be deeply missed by many. Gerald served with distinction with the Chicago Police Department for 31 years, where he earned the respect of his colleagues and the community and achieved the role of Captain. His leadership was underscored by his dry sense of humor and his genuine smile, endearing him to many. A proud Army veteran, Jerry spent several years in Italy and the surrounding countries, leading to his passion for travel.
During his time overseas, he soaked in the cultures, customs and foods of much of Europe, eventually sharing his favorite places with Rosemarie. Gerald shared with those he loved. He maintained strong relationships with his childhood friends, coworkers from the police force with trusted lifelong camaraderie throughout the many seasons and changes in life. Gerald held a deep love for his family, specifically his nieces and nephews. He was a proud homeowner in Chicago, Florida and Crest Hill, creating lasting connections and relationships everywhere he went with his mischievous smile and commitment to his friends, family and country. He maintained many of his friendships from the close-knit brotherhood provided by the Police force, into his later years, establishing an invaluable bond between many fellow officers.
Gerald is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Rosemarie Keller, who was his partner in life and love. Together they embraced life's journey, and their bond was a testament to their unwavering commitment to one another. He is also survived by his dear siblings Annette Jungheim, Donald Keller and Sonia (Mario) Caponigro; his treasured nieces and nephews Christopher (Lisa) Jungheim, Dr. Kelli Keller, Lea (Connor) Emmet, Vince Caponigro, Tom (Jenny) Filipiak, Joey Filipiak, Robert (Patti) Westhouse and Michael (Cara) Westhouse; his cherished great-nieces and great-nephews Nicholas, Matthew (Lysithia), Jack Henry, Luke, Claire, Tommy, Lily, Bobby, Ben and Brayden; and his fond brother-in-law Thomas (Patricia) Filipiak. He is preceded in death by his loving parents Alvin and Estelle Keller and sister-in-law Gayle Westhouse.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Mary Immaculate Parish on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11:00am. Interment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood IL. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jerry's name to Chicago Police Memorial Fund (www.cpdmemorial.org)
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