Russell Reginald Keller

He was born on April 10, 1939, in Merrifield, MN to Russell T. and Geraldine (Mcintyre) Keller. Russell married Marilyn Davis on September 4, 1982, in Fairfield, IA. She survives.

Russell is also survived by his son; Gene Keller, daughter; Debbie (John) Bailey of Troy, TN, stepdaughter; Laura King of East Peoria, stepson; David (Mardell) Wilson of Omaha, NE, seven grandchildren; Jennifer (Joseph) Denning, Cody Smith, Melissa King, Evan Bailey, Logan Bailey, Jonah Wilson and Elliott Wilson; six great grandchildren; Easton, Emerson, Zoey, Octavia, Rhett and Oliver.

He was preceded by his parents, three brothers; Don, Buddy and Virgil, one sister; Sue and one grandson Nicholas King (Amanda – she survives) .

Russell proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 20 years. He also Boxed for the Navy during his enlistment. Russell was privileged to be selected for the Honor Flight on April 28, 2022. Russell always looked forward to attending the reunions for the USS Hornet CV-12.

After his military service he worked as a carpenter. He was a member of the Pekin First Presbyterian Church, VFW Post 1232 and Dart Ball for the Miller Center. Russell especially enjoyed spending time with his family and was always kept busy by his grandchildren’s activities.

Cremation Rites have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory Pekin Chapel. There are no scheduled services.

Memorial contributions in honor of Russell may be directed to the Greater Peoria Honor Flight P.O. Box 5072, Peoria, IL 61601 or Freedom Paws Service Dogs Foundation 5407 East Cambron Avenue, Chillicothe, Illinois 61523.

To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com