John Matthew Keller

John Matthew Keller, age 89, of Highland Township, passed away on August 27, 2025.

Born on May 10, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, John was the cherished son of Joseph and Rose Keller. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of duty and patriotism that would guide his life. As a young man, he proudly enlisted in the United States Armed Forces and was stationed in Germany, where he served his country with honor. During his service, he sustained a serious injury when a Jeep rollover left him in a full body cast-an event that exemplified both his resilience and his bravery.

After returning home, John reunited with his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Sandra. The two were married on May 18, 1957, and went on to build a beautiful life together over 58 years of marriage. Together they raised two beloved children, Don and Julie, creating a home filled with laughter, love, and the values of hard work and family devotion.

John began his professional journey as an apprentice under his older brother Pete, learning the trade of sheet metal work. He dedicated many years to the craft, working diligently until his well-earned retirement.

In his free time, John was an outdoorsman at heart. He cherished spending winters in St. Petersburg, Florida, with Sandra, and summers entertaining family and friends at their cabin in Farwell, Michigan. Whether golfing, hunting, or simply enjoying the fresh air, John found joy in nature and in sharing it with those he loved.

A proud Detroiter, John was an avid fan of the Red Wings, Lions and Tigers. He never missed a game and wore his hometown pride with enthusiasm. He was also known for his patriotism and deep pride in his military service.

Above all else, John was a devoted family man. Known affectionately as "Papa," he was the heart and soul of his family. He took great pride in watching his grandsons play baseball, gathering for family games of Yahtzee, and toasting with his signature shot of Crown Royal. John had a magnetic personality-he was the life of every party, full of stories, laughter, and warmth. His legacy of love, humor, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving children Don (Donna) Keller and Julie McInnes; his adoring grandchildren Amanda (Kenan) Manalp, Ashlee (Cole) Preville, Amber (Michael) Morfitt, Haley (Carter) Coble, Kayla (Nick) O'Heron, and Tyler Keller; and his treasured great-grandchildren Easton, Mason, Ayla, Zara, Kinsey, Chase, Beverly, Clyde, Avery and Holden. John also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

John now rejoins his beloved wife Sandra in eternal rest, as well as his parents Joseph and Rose Keller, and his brothers Pete, Nick, Joe, and Don.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Lynch and Sons Funeral Home (404 East Liberty Street, Milford, Michigan).

John will be laid to rest beside Sandra at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date, where his life of service, love, and legacy will be honored once more.