Joseph Kenneth Keller

Joseph Kenneth Keller, 81, of Indianapolis Indiana, met eternal life on April 16, 2022. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife (Martha) Jane Keller of 55 years. He is survived by daughters Stephanie (Kris) Kolbe, Gracie (Shawn) Whitlock, 7 grandchildren, Maddie, Sophie and TJ Kolbe, and Emma, Mae, Millie, and Joe Whitlock, brothers Charles Keller and Robert Keller, countless friends who he touched throughout his life and last but not least, his faithful dog Domino, who never left his side

He was born to parents Kenneth Lee and Helen Lucille Keller, on November 5, 1940, in Indianapolis Indiana. Joe grew up in St. Philip Neri parish where he made childhood friends who he remained friends with throughout his life. He then graduated from Scecina Memorial High School in 1958. He spent a year continuing his education in Eastern Tennessee State University. He then finished his bachelor’s degree at Indiana University.

Joe met Jane in 1964 and fireworks were seen and heard throughout the western hemisphere. He hitched his wagon to hers and they were married on July 9, 1966. Both had been teachers, Jane taught 1st grade and Joe taught special needs children. Although he cherished the memories and experiences with his classes, he shifted directions and decided to go into sales. Jane and Joe followed his job opportunities to Memphis TN and Chicago IL. They made both cities a birthplace for their two children. Joe’s work finally led him back to Indianapolis, where they laid down roots on the city’s south side. They lived there for 38 wonderful years.

Upon moving back to Indianapolis, Joe worked as a salesperson at Brulin Chemical Co. He made wonderful friends there and picked up the passion of running. For at least a decade, Joe averaged running six miles a day. He was always in shape and ready for 5ks, 10ks, mini-marathons and relay decathlons with his co-workers. He was like the mailman, running in cold, heat, rain, snow and sleet.

Joe retired from Brulin in 1987 and decided to pursue his dream of owning his own business. He started K&K sales as a manufacturer’s rep. He had a special gift of turning strangers into customers and customers into friends. Joe retired at age 67, and spent his retirement loving on his 7 grandchildren and traveling to Greece, Alaska, and spending several winters in Orange Beach AL.

Joe was a presence to behold. He stood at 6 feet 8 inches and commanded every room he entered. His heart matched his stature. He was incredibly generous and caring to all that had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Joe was an amazing father, husband, grandfather, brother and friend. His legacy to love unconditionally, find humor in every situation, to remain loyal to his beliefs, and to forgive will live on for generations. We all feel blessed to have known and to have loved him.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 28 from 10:30- 12pm at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 7200 Sarto Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46240, in the Narthax. Immediately following the visitation, Mass will be said at noon in the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations or prayers can be made in memory of Joe to Catholic Charities or Scecina Memorial High School.