On a beautiful day in December 2013, Robert Keller’s remains were interred in a columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery. The service of full military honors included a military band, a caisson pulled by six white horses carrying his urn, chaplain’s homily, presentation of the flag and gun volley. Bob, who lived in Minnehaha Springs for 40 years, passed away in February 2012. Bob’s service was attended by his family including his wife, Pat, daughters, Katie, and her husband, Eric, and grandson, Jackson, daughter, Krissy, her husband, Justin, and grandchildren, Logan and Grace. Also attending were his sisters and their husbands: Barbara and Rob Frische and Judi and Ken Blanton. Two former soldiers who served about the same time as Bob with the 101st Calvary were present to honor their “brother” as was an “Arlington Lady” to offer personal sympathy and that from the director of the Cemetery. Knowing how patriotic her father was, Krissy later wrote that her dad was not much for crowds, but she could say with absolute certainty that he would be proud to be there with 400,000 fellow soldiers. Bob served in Vietnam as a 1st Lieutenant; among his medals was the Bronze Star. Arlington National Cemetery is available to any former soldier with an honorable discharge and who did not commit a federal crime. There is no charge. The Cemetery staff takes care of everything with courtesy and sympathy. Arrangements were thoughtfully made by Kimble Funeral Home.
