George J Keeler

Rotterdam-Mr. George J. Keeler, age 91, went to his loving Lord on Saturday morning, January 16, 2016, with family by his side at Ellis Hospital, Schenectady. George leaves behind his loving wife of 65 years, Eleanor, and their 7 children, who he loved with all his heart: George (Mary Jean), Stephen (Mary Ann), Kathleen Mullins (Michael), Kevin (Annie), Kenneth (Cheryll, companion), Thomas (Christina), and Christopher (Terri).He was adored by all who knew him, especially his grandchildren:Jessica, Meagan, Emmett, Kim, Marisa, Wade, Richard, Sarah, Joshua, and 2 who left the family far too young, Rachael and Daniel.He is also survived by 5 great grandchildren, Kaiya, Giovanni, Owen, Ayden, Anabella, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. Born in New York City, he was one of 8 children of the late William and Agnes Keeler.Preceded in death by siblings, Robert, William, Agnes, Barbara, and Henry, he was survived by a brother, Joseph Keeler; and a sister, Eleanor Forrest. At only 18, George enlisted in the Army.A machine gunner and Sharpshooter, he was injured in France when the 629 Tank Destroyer Battalion fell behind enemy lines.He held the rank of PFC when honorably discharged in 1945, having received the Victory Medal, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with 2 service stars, and the distinguished Purple Heart.A recorded interview about his service is a part of The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor in Vails Gate, NY.In 2011, George took an Honor Flight to Washington DC.His commitment to service continued at St. St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic Church in Guilderland, where he worked in the Food Pantry and welcomed parishioners as an usher. His 38 year career with Macy's began in a NYC stockroom.A natural leader, he helped open new departments and new stores (Roosevelt Field, Huntington, Bay Shore), before relocating upstate to work at Colonie Center, from which he retired as Operations Manager. A great sportsman, George was an avid golfer, playing last summer in both the CAPCOM Senior Golf League (Briar Creek GC) and with the Second Milers (Stadium).He was a long-time player in the Johnny Evers League, at Western Turnpike GC, where he and Eleanor were members for many years.As a national quoit champion, George's name is inscribed on the national trophy in Philadelphia.He belonged to the Albany Curling Club, bowled in several leagues over the years, and was a lifelong Yankee and Giants fan. Always creative, he enjoyed woodworking, especially intarsia, making many pieces for friends and family.Another passion was creating beautiful gardens, complete with bridges and arbors, which he made by hand, to surround the multitude of flowers and hostas he tended. Ever ready with a smile, a story, advice, or a joke, one of his greatest gifts was making others feel important and special, and making simple moments memorable.He touched the lives of many, reminding all, "Don't take any wooden nickels." Calling hours will be 4-7 pm on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 5216 Western Turnpike, Guilderland, 518-356-5925.The funeral with military honors will commence at 10 am on Thursday, January 21st with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic Church, 3500 Carman Rd., Schenectady.Procession will follow to the Saratoga National Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the St. Madeleine Sophie Food Pantry (3500 Carman Rd, Schenectady, NY 12303) are welcomed.The family would like to thank the staffs at Ellis and Albany Med for their kindness.