Wayne B. Keeler

Oppenheim, NY-Mr. Wayne B. Keeler, Sr., age 71, of Lotville Road, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, April 7, 2017 in the comfort of his home, following a brief illness. He was born on April 30, 1945 in Herkimer, son of the late Robert Keeler, Sr., and Eleanor (Lallo) and educated in Herkimer schools.  He was united in marriage with JoAnn Congdon on August 18, 1972 in Herkimer.  They would have celebrated 45 years of marriage this year.  Mr. Keeler was last employed with Oppenheim-Ephratah Central School as a custodian.  He retired in November of 2016 after several years of dedicated service.  Wayne enjoyed his career at the school along with the students and teachers.  Mr. Keeler loved working outdoors.  He enjoyed word searches and was a jokester who loved to pick on everyone.  Wayne was always smiling and a joy to be around.  Most of all, he treasured the times spent amongst his loved ones and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his wife, JoAnn at home; his children, Tammy Hart and husband Bryan of Dolgeville, Philip Keeler and wife Sandra of Dolgeville, Wayne Keeler, Jr. and girlfriend, Rebecca Warner of Dolgeville and April Palmiter and fiancé Steve Allen of Ilion; siblings, Robert Keeler, Jr. and wife Barbara of Mohawk, Margaret Shutts and husband Ronnie of Caroga Lake; several grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.  Also surviving is a special sister in law, Janet and other in laws.  The funeral will commence at 2 pm on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 from Daniel J. Enea Funeral and Cremation Care, 5860 State Route (near St. Mary’s Cemetery), between Little Falls and Herkimer, 315-508-5250.  Relatives and friends may pay their respects at Dan Enea's funeral home location on Tuesday prior to the service, from 12 noon until 2 pm.  He will be laid to rest later in the spring in Middleville Cemetery.  The family would like to offer their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Utica and to Hospice Care, Inc., for all of their kindness and compassion.  Please omit floral offerings.  Kindly consider memorial offerings in Mr. Keeler’s name to Hospice Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413. Please click to the left to offer online condolences.