Richard Michael Keltner

R. Michael Keltner came into this world on March 7, 1946 in Keokuk, Iowa. The family moved to Kankakee, Illinois where Mike attended primary grades, high school and attended college. His life would soon change as he decided to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1965. After intensive training, Mike was sent overseas to Vietnam to fight against the Communist Regime. It was there that Mike proved what he was made of. Mike was awarded the Bronze Star with combat "V" for valor for heroic achievement while serving with his unit, the Marine Attack Squadron #211 during the Tet Offensive of 1968. Mike said one of the lasting legacies he experienced was a genuine appreciation for the courage demonstrated by his fellow Marines. Mike faced death many times during his tour. These experiences are what molded him as a man. Mike was a volunteer at Bradley Fire Department and worked other various jobs before forming his own company known as ITEC Trailer Corp. This business bought, sold, and leased new and used semi-trailers to the trade. Besides this business, Mike founded another known as LANDCO, L.L.C., which owns and leases property to major trucking concerns. He continued these ventures until retirement in 2012. Mike devoted many years to philanthropy. The following is a list of entities that Mike belonged to: He was a Shriner with Medinah and held the Roundy Jewel. His Blue Lodge is Neighbor Lodge #1168 of which he was it's Worshipful Master in 2005, and is a life member there. He belonged to the Scottish Rite Valley of Danville and Chicago and also the three York Rite bodies. He belonged to the Red Cross of Constantine, St. John's Conclave. He was Chairman Emeritus of the Greeter Committee, a Potentate's Aide in 2005, and Past President of the Joliet Shrine Club. Mike was the Director of Committees for Medinah and a member of the Medinah Patrol Unit. He was a member of El Hajj, Caravanseri #1 Chicago and he was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters, Court #48 and a past Director of it plus being a Royal Constable. He was a member of Jesters on Wheels and a member of the Kachina Club. He was a member of the Benevolent Order of Crabs and an honorary member of the Demolay Legion of Honor. Further, he was past Secretary of the Chicago Kentucky Colonels. He was a member of the VFW, the Marine Corps League and Vietnam Veterans of America. Lastly, Mike was a member of Illinois College Societas Rosicruciana #429, Cibitaibus Foederatis which has its roots in the York Rite. He was a honorary member of the NexGen Club, and on the Board of Governors of the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Mike was the 2015 Potentate of Medinah Shrine and a member of Cabiri International. Richard Michael Keltner, Vietnam Veteran, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, November 15th, 2016. Devoted Father of Richard Michael Jr., Rachelle L. (Robert) Henderson, Renee A. (Raul) Keltner-Perez, Regina M. (Ron) Melia, and Ryan M. Keltner. Love of his life Pat Monaco. Loving Son of the late George Richard Keltner and Betty Lee, (nee) Sanders, Keltner. Proud Grandfather of 17. Proud Great-Grandfather of 8. Brother of Sharyn Hotz, David E. (Norma) Keltner, Jeanne (D.J.) Muse, and Melissa Herndon. Loving Grandson of the late Earl and Melissa Keltner. Dear Uncle and Great Uncle to many. Funeral Monday, November 21st, 2016 8:30 a.m. with a Chapel Service at 9:30 a.m. at Russo's Hillside Chapels, 4500 Roosevelt Road, Hillside, IL 60162 (located between Mannheim and Wolf Road). Interment Abraham Lincoln Cemetery. Visitation Sunday, November 20th, 2016 from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. with Service starting at 6:30 p.m. and a Masonic Service to follow. For additional info (708)449-5300. Please visit R. Michael's personal tribute website at www.russohillsidechapels.com and sign his guestbook. In lieu of flowers, donations in R. Michael Keltner's name to Shriner's Hospital for Children in Chicago, IL are appreciated.