Christopher Lynn Keller

Christopher Lynn Keller passed away on Monday April 15th, 2024, surrounded by his family at the age of 63.

Chris was born in Houston, Texas to George and Connie Keller on February 23rd, 1961, the youngest of four children. His family moved several times in his younger years and settled in Franklin Lakes, NJ. It was here he started working for his neighbor, Dave Flitcroft, who was a nurseryman and owner of Shady Hollow Nursery. Dave became Chris’ mentor and dear friend teaching him everything about the nursery business, trees, plants, and all things green. Dave also introduced him to Upland bird hunting and English Setters, two things that gave him great joy throughout his life.

Chris went on to open his own landscaping business and focused on West Point contract work until around 2001. He then decided to go into nursery sales and sold for multiple nurseries including Surface Nursery in Gresham, Oregon. Surface became his main focus, and he loved his Surface family and all of his customers. Chris also worked locally at both Devitt’s Nursery and most recently Manza Farm and Garden Center. Chris never missed an opportunity to brighten someone’s day with one of his famous jokes or stories. He loved to make people laugh.

Chris was a dedicated member of the Wallkill Lions Club and was so proud of being a part of the “pit crew” at the Steak Dinner. Chris was active in all the Lions many community projects most recently coordinating and running the Wallkill Easter Egg Hunt. Chris was also a “trucker” for the Wallkill Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. His last act of service was organ donation.

Chris is survived by his wife Laura, his sons Christopher Keller (Rubi Rodriguez) of Houston TX and Ryan Keller (Sarah LaSpada) of Boston MA, his brothers George Keller of Port Arthur TX, Tom Keller (Linda Haarer) of Grand Rapids MI and sister Beth Gorab (Ron Gorab) of Leland NC. Chris was predeceased by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, consider contributing to Above and Beyond English Setter Rescue, via erescue.org or the Wallkill Lions Club at P.O. Box 456, Wallkill, NY 12589.

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