Michael J. Keller

Michael Keller, of the Town of Buchanan, age 55 years, went to be with his Lord with his family at his side on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at Cherry Meadows. He was born on October 22, 1952 in Kaukauna, the son of the late Robert and Harriet (Stals) Keller. Mike married the love of his life Kathryn Zoelk on June 17, 1972 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church. He was employed at Pierce Manufacturing for 34 years. Mike enjoyed golfing, scuba diving, and dog training. Showing dogs, training dogs in obedience and making scent articles for dog training was one of his passions. He looked forward to the yearly trip to Cozumel and traveling. Most of his friends would remember Mike as being active, be it riding his bike, working in the yard or feeding the birds. He enjoyed going to their trailer at Kastle in Marion. His family meant the world to him and loved spending time with his wife, daughters, granddaughters and his dog Torch.

Mike is survived by his loving family, his wife of 35 years, Kathryn Keller; dear daughters and son-in-law: Chanda (Wayne) Millard and Marissa Keller; cherished granddaughters, Keeli and McKenzie Millard; siblings: Mary Ann (Gene) Adams, Rita (Bill) Sell, Robert (Brenda) Keller, Delores (Roger) Johnson, James (Mary) Keller, Dale (Mary Ellen) Keller, and Tammy (Todd) Kimball; father and mother-in-law: Lyle and Beverly Zoelk; brother-in-law: Steve Zoelk and sisters-in-law: Susan (Bruce) Anderson and Sheri (special friend Frank Dombrowski) Zoelk. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, sister Patricia Keller and several loyal canine companions.

The funeral service for Michael will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 1, 2008 at PRINCE OF PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2330 E. Calumet Street, Appleton with Rev. Roger McQuistion officiating. The family will receive friends at Wichmann Funeral Home on Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00 pm and again at the church on Friday from 9:30 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name.

The family would like to express their gratitude to every one for their continued support, especially the following people, brothers Bob and Jim, sister Mary Ann, brother-in-law Steve, nephews Chris and Brett, friends Lynn and Jean Yolitz, Dan and Connie Kraft, Jeff Jirikowic, Shari Griesbach, Wally, and neighbor Dan. Special thanks to Melissa, Jill, Ben, and Michelle for their excellent care and compassion. Thank you to Martha Siekman Cancer Center, Appleton Medical Center 3 South, UW-Madison Comprehensive Cancer Clinic, Cherry Meadows, Pierce Manufacturing and Albany International for all of your support during Mike's courageous battle with cancer. Lastly, the family appreciated all of the prayers and thoughtfulness of Rev. Roger from Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 N. Superior St.
Appleton, WI 54911
920-739-1231