Edward "Ed" Keller

KELLER, Edward "Ed" - James passed away on April 28, 2008 at the age of 86. Mr. Keller died peacefully while surrounded by family and close friends at his home in Yountville, CA. Born March 18, 1922 to Frank and Anna Keller, he was raised in Pittsburgh, PA. At the age of 18 Mr. Keller joined the US Marine Corps, serving during World War II in the Pacific Theater and in the Korean War. He was a military advisor during the Vietnam War and retired as a US Marine Corps Captain in 1961. He then returned to his native state to live in Monroeville, PA, where he was employed by the US Postal Service for 20 years. A long-time Florida and Pennsylvania resident, Mr. Keller moved to Yountville in 2006. His charismatic and larger-than-life personality quickly made him a recognized and beloved figure in the community. His extensive repertoire of life stories and great friends from all over the country are a testament to the full life he led. Mr. Keller always faced hardships with determination, strength and undeniable charm. He is an inspiration to his family will continue to be an example to all who knew him. Mr. Keller is survived by his children Jimmy from Lake Worth, FL; Robert Charles from West Palm Beach, FL; Michael and Joseph from Las Vegas, NV; and Thomas from Yountville, CA; his wife Elma and their daughter Sandy from Monroeville, PA; and stepchildren Keith and Lynn Ann from Monroeville, PA; fifteen grand children and three great grandchildren also survive him. A viewing is scheduled on Sunday, May 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Morrison Funeral Chapel, 990 Vintage Ave. in St. Helena. A requiem mass honoring his life will be held at the St. Helena Catholic Church, 1340 Tainter St., on Monday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the Edward James Keller Scholarship Fund will be established for deserving culinary students. Donations to that Scholarship may be arranged by calling Stefanie Cangiano at (212) 228-8181. Mr. Keller will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.