John Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Keller

John Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Keller, 75, of Fullerton, passed away Monday, Sept. 11, 2023, at his home. He went out as he always wished – peacefully, at home, with his faithful dog, Sally, by his side.  

Jeff was born Dec. 2, 1947 in Grand Island. Jeff “shot put” into the world, courtesy of Keith and Maude (Cooper) Keller. He was a proud graduate of Fullerton High School in 1966, a place where he forged lifelong friendships through his sport-filled youth. Those Fullerton friends remained steadfast by his side until the very end.  

After attending Kearney State College, Jeff moved to Niobrara, to teach, coach, and raise his family as a devoted father. With the lure of the river, fishing, hunting, golfing, and eventually buying the Sugar Shack, Niobrara became home for many years where enduring friendships were forged. The pull of home and caring for his beloved mother later brought Jeff back to Fullerton, where he decided to stay for good.  

Nostalgia painted his tales of rekindling old friendships and forging new memories. Whether cruising through the countryside or cheering on the Huskers, Jeff enjoyed a simple life, yet impacted the lives of so many.  

Jeff leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, most evident in the lives of his dedicated children, Jeffrey (Tami) Keller and Beverly (Matthew) Colan. He held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, Sam, Jack, and Ben Keller and Kayla and Allie Colan. And just a month and a half ago, he welcomed a great-granddaughter, Brinley (daughter of Kayla Colan).  

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents and lifelong companion, Jill Whitney.  

The family extend a heartfelt thank you to the Fullerton community. Your kindness during Jeff’s daily strolls with Sally, offering respite with strategically placed chairs, won’t be forgotten. Jeff is likely leaning against a cloud now, smiling down on us as our eternal guardian.  

Come share a story or two at visitation on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. at Palmer-Santin Funeral Home in Fullerton. A celebration of Jeff’s life will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 3 at Fullerton Community Church in Fullerton with Reverend Vern Olson officiating. Inurnment will follow at Fullerton Cemetery with a luncheon also to follow at the Eagles Club in Fullerton.