Brian Lee Keeler, 71, of Gypsum, KS, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2023. He was born on February 25, 1952, to Marion and Shirley (Schwarz)Keeler, in Salina KS. Brian lived a fulfilling life and touched the hearts of all who met him.
Family was at the center of Brian’s life. He is survived by his wife, of 49 years, Sally (Stock) Keeler, brothers Bill (Sharon) Keeler, McPherson KS and Brad (LaNell) Keeler, Gypsum KS and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both of his parents. His love, wisdom, and kindness will be dearly missed by his entire family and friends.
Brian grew up in Gypsum and attended Southeast of Saline High School graduating in 1970 and then attended Kansas State Teachers College at Emporia. He returned to Gypsum where he worked for Morton Buildings and met the love of his life, Sally. They were married in 1974 and displayed their commitment to one another throughout their 49 years together.
He was known for his quick wit, storytelling and being the life of the party wherever he went. Whether it was hunting whitetail deer on Gypsum Creek, putting together real estate deals, mingling with the regular coffee drinkers in Gypsum, or contributing time to help his church, Brian approached life with his unique blend of intelligence, humor, and selflessness. He was a successful salesman, entrepreneur, and landlord for 52 plus years, leaving a lasting impact on his friends and his community.
In his spare time, Brian enjoyed hunting, fishing, and entertaining all that were around, and loving on his nieces and nephews by attending many of their events or cheering them on from afar.
He built his home, one of his bucket list items, in 1997. He loved that he had a place that his hands had been a part of. Soon after he and Sally were married, he was able to live in Colorado in a log cabin and enjoy the mountains from his deck. He was particularly passionate about seeing the country and got the opportunity over the past few years to travel to Hawaii, Missouri, Colorado, Wisconsin, and Louisiana. He was also dedicating time and energy to making a positive difference in the community through the Lions Club of Gypsum and their church, Gypsum Community Church.
Brian will be remembered for his generosity, his never-give-up attitude which he displayed till the end of his life, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace in God’s arms.
Friends and family are invited to the visitation on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 from 5 - 7 PM at Roselawn Memorial Heights Chapel, 1920 E. Crawford Salina, KS. Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Gypsum Community Church, 524 King St., Gypsum, KS, a luncheon will immediately follow. There will be a private family burial in the afternoon in Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Salina, KS. In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gypsum Community Church; 524 E. King; Gypsum, KS 67448.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences can be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.