Jack Donovan Keltner

Mr. Jack Donovan Keltner, 97, of McGregor, passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2022 in Waco, Texas. Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at McGregor Cemetery in McGregor, Texas with Reverend Victoria Gebert officiating. Family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, October 17, 2022 at Cole Funeral Home in McGregor, Texas.

Jack was born on July 29, 1925, to Raymond and Alma (Turner) Keltner in McGregor, Texas. He was a longtime resident of McGregor and a graduate of McGregor High School. Jack served in the United States Coast Guard as an Electronics Technician, 2nd Class during World War II in the Great Lakes, Puerto Rico and Newfoundland. Jack earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree at North Texas State University and a Master of Science degree at Baylor University. He married Darlene, the love of his life, on August 23, 1974, in Temple, Texas and they enjoyed 36 happy years of marriage together. Jack worked in the insurance industry for many years, at one time serving as President of Naler Insurance Agency in McGregor. Jack also spent many years in the McGregor Independent School District as a coach, teacher, Principal and Superintendent. He built a championship caliber Girls’ Basketball program at McGregor High School and also coached other sports including track & field. Jack supported the Future Farmers of America and was the first President of M.O.C. Little League in 1951. He continued his involvement with education by serving nine years on the McGregor School Board as a member and as Board President. The Board presented him with a watch in recognition of his years of service. He was an avid golfer and participated in numerous tournaments in and out of state. Jack also loved to take long road trips to points of interest in the South and the West. Jack and Darlene were also blessed with many close friends in and around McGregor who made their lives rich and who often joined them on their travels.

Survivors include his son, Donald Keltner of Waco; daughters, Kim Smith and husband, David of McGregor; Priscilla Judge of Woodway; and grandson, Dane Smith of McGregor.