Dr. Jon Michael Keller passed from this world to be with the Lord on December 22nd, 2016 at age 67.
Born in Ephrata and raised in Lititz, he was a 1967 graduate of Warwick High, a 1971 graduate of Juniata College, and a 1975 graduate the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was one of the first Board Certified Emergency Physicians in the nation, serving Lancaster Co. as the first Emergency Medical Resource Director. In later years he became Board Certified in Family Practice, enjoying the chance to care for patients on a long term basis, not possible in the emergency setting. He served thousands of patients over the span of 40 years with great dedication, compassion and skill, made possible by the help of great mentors, fellow physicians and nurses, and a very fine team of coworkers. In life Dr. Keller served people with two vocations. He was first a disciple of Jesus and second a physician. Dr. Keller believed that the healer’s duty is to treat the whole person. For him, healing included the body and soul which is why he prayed for his patients continually. His favorite verse was Isaiah 40:31.
Stemming from his dutiful love and his motto, “first God, then family, then others, and finally self” Dr. Keller was a faithful husband, father and friend. His deep passion for life was a mark of his character. While it’s true that he could be a bear of a man, he was also a man of tender heart, kindness and generosity. His buddies will tell you that he was fiercely loyal and had an excellent sense of humor. His passions were medicine, music, motorcycles, western movies, cars, woodworking, telling jokes, the great outdoors, and playing checkers with his favorite grandson Jeffrey Michael Keller, Jr.
The family has taken great comfort in the peace he experienced prior to his passing, possible because of his faith in Christ and his belief in His promises. He was predeceased by his mother Ruth Annette Bruce Keller, and his sister Sueann Keller. He is survived by his father John W. Keller, wife Lynne Susan Keller, siblings Robert (Sarah) Keller and Sandra (Leon) Pennell, children Bonnie (Scott) Broberg, Dr. Laura (Martin) Keller-Timoney, and Pastor Jeffrey (Adrianna) Keller, and four grandchildren Jeffrey, Riley, Elizabeth, and Kathryn, as well as many wonderful cousins, nieces and nephews. Dr. Keller’s life will be celebrated at Lititz Church of the Brethren on January 14, 2017 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Samaritan’s Purse or Hospice of Lancaster County.
Lynn, We were out of town over the holidays and missed the notice of Mike’s home-going. Our sympathy is with you as you adjust to missing him every day. May the Lord’s peace be yours in full measure.
To the family of Dr. Jon Michael Keller my wife and and wish to leave our
condolences.
Now a little story on my wife’s and my first visit to Jon when he opened up his practice in Ephrata the first time. He requested us to do a blood test as it was our first visit. Since my wife was a little squeamish with needles he had her lay down. When it came my turn he had me sit on a stool across from him. Well for some reason when he started to draw my blood I passed out. He grabbed me and about that I came to striking him full force in the stomach. Which can imagine him doubling over has he was calling for his help to bring smelling salt.
All in all both my wife and I miss him dearly, we enjoyed our time with him. He was always one of the best friends and doctor anyone could have.
As one of the ER nurses that warmed by his side, I send my condolences to his family.
I was saddened to see this today. I had the pleasure of working with Dr Keller when I was an RN in the ED. My deepest condolences to his family.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Keller. He was a good man and a great physician I had the privilege to work with in the emergency department. Prayers to his family and friends.
Dear Lynne,
I was so sorry to read about Mike! You and your family are in my prayers! Even though we haven’t seen each other in years, I will always remember you, Mike and one highlight of those early years, your lovely wedding! Please know how much I appreciated knowing both you and Mike! I will never forget the paper Mike wrote during nursing school and how we all laughed and laughed!
I hope the thoughts and prayers of all your friends and acquaintances will help you through the coming days!
Sincerely,
Jean (Seitzinger) Good
So sorry to hear. Always loved our little talks during doctor visits. God bless the families .
Lynne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Take comfort in knowing that he is at peace and is not in pain anymore. Many memories of all the year’s we all worked together.
dear lynne and family,
what a shock to see doc keller’s obit today .. my condolences to you and your family .. I was a patient of his for many years as you know… and I fondly remember you and mike visiting with me one day at the diner across from kmart when I was there with my late hubby, Donald, after one of his chemo treatments.
many thoughts and prayers ..
Dear Lynne & Family,
. My thoughts & prayers are with you. I was hoping to celebrate Mike’s life With you, but I too will be out of town on the 14th. I have many humorous memories of Mike from Fast Care. He really was a teddy bear.
Lynn and family. So sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Any services planned?
Just saw the date. So sorry we will be out of town but our thoughts will be with you.