Obituary of James E. Keeler

KEELER, James Edwin of Frankenmuth, formerly of Saginaw, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at his home. He was 66 years old. James E. Keeler was born on February 4, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Ralph and Helen (Cherry) Keeler. He married the love of his life, Margaret Sargent on September 30, 1967, in Saginaw at St. Helen Catholic Church. He graduated of St. Andrew High School. James was proud to be the owner and operator of Saginaw Asphalt; family owned since 1952. He retired in 2003 after many years of dedicated service. James was a member of the Michigan Asphalt Paving Association, Michigan Road Builders, Tri-County Contractors Association, Saginaw Club, Saginaw Country Club and the Honest John Club. He enjoyed gardening, his orchids and the Orchid Society, walking on the beach, winters in Florida and reading. He especially loved and treasured his children and grandchildren. Surviving are two daughters: Wendy (Tim) Smith, of Saginaw and Jean Pearson of Ann Arbor; two grandchildren: Brandon and Mitchell Smith; special long time friends: Carl Pardon and Anna Rose Stephenson. He was preceded in death by his parents. FUNERAL: A Funeral Service for James will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Rev. Dr. Robert L. Emrich will officiate. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family on Monday, March 18, 2013 at the funeral home from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Service at 11:00 a.m. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan, Inc. or a charity of the donor's choice. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.