Raymond Frank Keller

Raymond Frank Keller, 94, passed away on September 5, 2023 peacefully in his home with family by his side, and a deck of cards in his hands. Ray was born on July 23, 1929 in Minneapolis, to Lawrence and Frances (Justen) Keller. Ray attended Assumption Catholic grade school, unknowingly with his future wife, until 8th grade. His family moved in the early 1940’s from 494/Nicollet to a new farm on Cedar Ave/160th in Apple Valley. He was drafted during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. Upon returning from the service, Ray reconnected with LaWanda at a family wedding dance, and was married in May 1955. They rented the family farm, just ¼ mile from Ray’s parents for 14 years. In 1969, Ray and LaWanda, with their 9 children, left many friends in the Rosemount / Apple Valley area to settle in Goodhue. Ray’s goal was to have a farm for each of his sons, and with much help from the boys, he met that goal.

 In 1994 Ray and LaWanda retired and moved to a very welcoming Pine Island Community. Retirement was filled with daily Mass, Rummikub, traveling the county, playing cards at the American Legion, enjoying his hot tub, and grandchildren's events at school. His most precious time was being LaWanda’s silent partner with her many volunteer projects. He missed her dearly after she passed in 2015. His final years were focused around going to daily and weekend Mass. He passed the time with solitaire and Rummikub when friends and family stopped by. The family expresses great appreciation to Hospice Nurse Angela and Nurse Lynn for dedicated loving care and fellowship.

Raymond is survived by 8 living children: Fred (Peggy) Keller of Lake City, Ray (Beth) Keller of Lake City, Rose Keller of Brooklyn Center, John Keller of Wanamingo, Helen (Thad) Gabara of New Providence NJ, Henry Keller of Oak Center, Ann (Ron) Rotondo of Coon Rapids, and Ted (Lora) Keller of Lake City, 39 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Hedy Keller of Red Wing.

He was preceded in death by his wife, LaWanda; son, Michael; siblings, Rev. Lawrence Keller, Clarice Gergen, Vernon Keller, Richard “Dick” Keller, Sr. Lucy Keller OSB; grandchildren, Jason Keller and Josh Keller; daughter-in-law Beth.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Church of St. Michael in Pine Island Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Randal Kasel officiating. Visitation will be at Mahn Family Funeral Home – Larson Chapel in Zumbrota from 4-7 p.m. Friday, September 8, 2023 and one hour prior to Mass at the church. Interment will take place at Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellechester. Online condolences are welcome and may be shared at mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.

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