We Remember
KELLER, Robert
—
April 12, 1938 – May 20, 2021
Dad/Grandpa/Opa went to join the love of his life Diana. A tiny UBC carpool note brought the two of them together for a wonderful 63 years. The last 3 months without her were heartbreaking for dad, and after a short and courageous health battle, he was able to say “I’m ready to go” on his terms and he took her hand again.
He leaves behind, with countless happy memories, his children Kevin (Tanya), Shannon (Paul), and Stefanie (Trevor); his grandchildren Lexa, Kira, Rafe, Gabriel, Bennett, Maren, and Linden. Also, dearly loved family members Eric and Katrina, Spencer and Emma-Lou, Sharon and Bruce, and Donna Fletcher, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Robert has so many dear friends, too many to mention, but our heartfelt thanks to those so close to him in the last 6 months during so many changes in his life. He talked endlessly of your meals together and of wine nights, movies, and drinking scotch.
Robert was the ever-positive and charming gentleman. He loved a good conversation. Born in Den Haag, Holland just before the start of WWII he and his family endured many difficult and frightening times. Moving to Canada he was ever grateful for all the freedoms and peace that Canada affords and so many others take for granted.
Robert and Diana were active members of St. Paul’s United Church and spent countless seasons enjoying the Okanagan Symphony. Dad loved to work, not for the money, but for the pure love of what he did. Dad worked as an accountant with Thalheimer & Co. for over 25 years, right up to the end.
Things will not be the same without you Dad. We will miss your energy, persistence, positive attitude, goofy ways you read to the kids, always saying “I’m great, how are you”, your love of swimming and travel, and so much more. We find comfort in knowing you are once again with Mom and are watching over us.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Much love to you all.
Dear Family- My condolences to ALL of you on the loss of Robert. You have been so loving & strong as you have been there for him & your Mom.Robert was such a wonderful member of our Choir- dedicated & so much fun-we will miss him so much.I
am comforted when I read the beautiful poem he wrote to Diana & joining her now that his life is through. Hold the wonderful memories in your hearts & I hope they will help you through this difficult time.Love Donna
Mark and I were sorry to hear of a Uncle Robert’s passing. Sending you guys our love and condolences as we share in the loss and celebrate in the memories and his life that was lived to the fullest. There’s so many fond memories that it’s hard to pinpoint one that stands out more. He’s positive energy, kindness, somewhat corny jokes and laughter is what we will remember most.
As soon as Robert moved into Missionwood, many people (mainly ladies) wanted to have dinner with him. He was handsome, humorous, generous, knowledgeable and interested in people. Robert earned his CPA and CMA in Vancouver, followed by a B. Comm. at UBC and an MBA at the Ivey Business School at Western University. As one of his professors at Western I remember him as hard working and eager to learn. At Missionwood I was one of the people eager to have dinner with him at every opportunity. We miss him.
Andrew Grindlay, Professor Emeritus
I am very sorry for your loss and wish your family strength during this difficult time.
Tracy Gray, Member of Parliament, Kelowna – Lake Country
It was an absolute honor to have met your father! He was always so kind, positive, and energetic! He was such a romantic and I know he loved your beautiful mom dearly. In the short time I’ve known him he always had the best stories and I will miss his beautiful smile! My sincere condolences to all of you. ❤️
Robert was our accountant for 24 years, he was more than that, he was a friend. We always looked forward to seeing him and his upbeat personality and his different ties he would wear.
Our condolences to the family
Kevin, Shannon & Stefanie–Your truly remarkable Dad entered our lives 63 years ago — Little did I know that he would be my wonderful and spirited brother in law for all these years. Thank goodness your Mom joined his UBC car pool and as the saying goes the rest is history. I will miss him dearly as he now joins your Mom for eternity . What a truly great Man. Our love to you and your families.