Stephen Keller

Stephen Keller FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida - Stephen Keller, 91, formerly of Muscatine, passed away July 29, 2009, in Fort Lauderdale, where he was residing. Funeral Service will be 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2009, Christ Church United Methodist, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in his honor to the Florida Grand Opera, Symphony of the Americas or the Miami City Ballet. He set an example of leadership and commitment and had a particular passion for the arts. He was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business, and was remembered fondly his years as captain of the crew team there. He was president of several manufacturing companies, including Bandag in Muscatine, until his retirement. Throughout his life, he supported and was active with the YMCA, United Way, Salvation Army, Red Cross, Symphony of Americas, Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet and was a distinguished Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary club. He served as vice president of the board of the Florida Grand Opera. In addition to his love of the arts, he loved to engage in spirited conversation about ...[more]

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fascination with the financial activities of the world. His favorite hobby was ballroom dancing. A true philanthropist, he realized the need for major financial support. To ensure and secure a future for keeping classical music and opera alive in South Florida, he established an endowment Legacy Challenge for Florida Grand Opera and Symphony of the Americas. He is survived by his companion and partner, Lesleen Bolt, his children, Stephen Keller Jr., James Keller, William Keller, and Margaret E. Keller-Jacobs; nine grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel L. Keller.