George E. Keller

With profound sadness, we share the passing of George Edward Keller, who, after a long fought battle against brain cancer, left this world, in his own timing, peacefully at his home on February 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that he lived a life filled with love, adventure, and deep devotion to those he cherished.

George was born on July 9, 1957, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Maurice and Eda Keller of Watervliet. He is survived by his bride of 47 years, Barbara Keller (also of Watervliet), son Michigan State Police Sargent Mathew Keller (of Brighton, MI), daughter Sarah Ludewig (of Germany), son-in-law Hannes Ludewig, and 7 adoring grandchildren: Braydon Keller, Payton Keller, Blake Keller, Bryce Keller, Elijah Ludewig, Gabriel Ludewig and Lilliana Ludewig. He is also survived by sister Patricia Kilmark and brothers Robert Keller, David Keller and Roger Keller. He was proceeded in death by his parents and brother Ronald Keller.

A 1976 graduate of Watervliet High School, George was a gifted athlete who excelled in wrestling, baseball, and football. His dedication and natural talent earned him many awards. After attending Washtenaw Community College, George graduated from Western Michigan University, laying the foundation for a life built on hard work and perseverance.

George approached life with a unique sense of humor and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Whether tracking deer in the crisp autumn air, shooting ducks in Arkansas, geese in Fennville or casting a fishing line into the blue water of Lake Michigan, he found solace and joy in nature—moments that became even more meaningful when shared with his friends and loved ones. But above all else, his greatest joy was his family—the foundation of his life, his greatest purpose, and his deepest pride.

For 47 years, he was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Barbara Keller, sharing a lifetime of love and laughter. He was a proud and supportive father to his children and an adoring grandfather. His true joy was watching his children’s sports games and coaching them throughout the years. His legacy will live on in the lessons he taught, the values he instilled, and the countless memories he created.

Those who knew George will remember his smile, his humor, his kindness, and generous spirit. He worked hard, played hard, and loved deeply. A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend—he will be missed beyond words.

His life was a testament to the simple yet profound joys of family, hard work, and the great outdoors. Though he is no longer with us, his love and spirit remain, woven into the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of George’s life will be held on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 South 9th Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009, from 1-4 pm. To view George’s personalized guestbook, please visit https://www.langelands.com

“To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die.”