Gerald E. Keller

Gerald E. Keller, age 86, of Battle Creek, died Monday, August 5, 2024, at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital with family at his side. He was born July 20, 1938, in Marshall, Michigan, the son of Milton Jacob and Vedna (Faurot) Keller. Jerry, as he was known, attended catholic schools and graduated from Lakeview High School. After high school he was recruited by coach Muddy Waters to play football at Hillsdale College. Instead, he went to work and eventually was employed by Ralston Purina Company where he retired after 30 years as a Class A Millwright. He also served in the Air Force Reserve for several years. Jerry was a Detroit Lions and Tigers fan who loved baseball and played senior softball until the age of 81. He passed his love of sports on to three of his granddaughters (Samantha, Katie, and Elisabeth Bent) and taught them to hit a softball before they were old enough to sign up for T-Ball. Jerry not only supported his granddaughters in athletics but was also an avid Harper Creek High School Football fan long after his son and daughter graduated from there. He was an usher and member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and was a Boy Scout Leader for many years. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 60 years, Spicy (Frazier) Keller, his son Jerry Keller, Jr. and brother Jim Keller. He is survived by his daughter Tammy Keller of Olivet, six grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 9, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow at Ceresco Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wattles Park Men’s Club or the Harper Creek High School athletic program to support youth athletics. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home www.henryfuneralhome.org