Date of Birth:
Thursday, September 25, 1952
Date of Death:
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Age:
63 years old

Thomas R. Keller

Thomas R Keller passed away Tuesday November 17, 2015 due to complications of a heart attack.

Tom was born Sept. 25, 1952 in Fairmont, MN.  His family moved to Rochester in 1956 where Tom attended school until 1968.  He graduated from Plainview High School in 1971.

Trained as a golfer by his father at an early age, Tom went on to earn state championships for both John Marshall and Plainview high schools and participated in jr. armature tournaments at state, region and national levels.  Throughout his life Tom enjoyed the sport both as participant and spectator and, with ample prodding, would boast of the 3 holes in one he achieved over his years on the links.

Tom was proud to build a career in the restaurant industry serving as general, district and regional manager for Perkins from 1975 to 1989 when he then became owner/operator of a Golden Corral franchise in Haines City, FL.  During his time in Haines City, he was charter president of the local Lions Club chapter.

Tom returned to Minnesota in 1996 where he continued to work in the restaurant industry until the disabling ramifications of a heart bypass returned him to Rochester in 1999. When Tom wasn’t working for the Rochester Juvenile Hockey Association or indulging his passion for reading, he could be found at local pub always willing to share a story, joke, or libation with old friends and new acquaintances alike.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Shirley Keller, his siblings Julie and Bill, and his daughter Amoreena Hope.  He is survived by daughter Candi, two grandsons, and sisters Mary Hair and Jeanne (Ed) Wilcox.

The family wishes to thank the skilled staff at Saint Mary’s Hospital, Mary Brigh 4DE for the compassion and care they provided to Tom in his final days.  The family also extends acknowledgement and gratitude to Casey Sabo and the rest of Tom’s family at Pappy’s Place; Tom sincerely treasured their love and friendship.

Visitation will be held in River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral home, Friday November 20 from 5:00-7:00.  Bereaved are welcome to stay for a brief service of remembrance following the visitation.

Memorials are suggested to American Diabetes Association – Camp Needlepoint.