Obituary of Max Keller

Max E. Keller OLEAN �" Max E. Keller, of Olean, passed away after a thirty-year battle with multiple sclerosis, on Wed. morning (Feb. 26, 2014) at Olean General Hospital. Born Feb. 6, 1931, in Olean, Max was the son of the late Orpha and Calvin Keller. He was married to his beloved wife of 62 years, Ruth Keller. Max was an avid and skilled basketball player for Olean High School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted with the U.S. Air Force, and served during the Korean Conflict. Upon his honorable discharge, he joined Stroehmann Brothers Bakery, where he worked until 1988. His joys were sharing memories of growing up in Olean, rooting for the Buffalo Bills and helping others cope with life-altering conditions similar to his challenges with MS. As such, the Stroke Support Group of Olean became a focus, where he served as president in the early-90s. Max was a devout man that relied heavily on his faith for strength to endure the numerous medical challenges he faced throughout the years. He was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Angel's Church and in recent years, St. Bonaventure Church. Surviving in addition to his wife are a son Timothy (Karen) Keller of Williamsville, NY; a grandson Joshua of Williamsville, NY; several nieces and nephews and a brother-in-law William DeArmitt of Allegany. He was predeceased by one sister, Jean DeArmitt. The family will receive friends on Friday at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, 3128 W. State Rd., Olean, from 5-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Sat., (March 1, 2014) at 8:30 a.m. at St. Bonaventure Church, Allegany. Rev. James Vacco, pastor, will be the celebrant. Immediately following the mass friends are invited to a brunch at the church's Memorial Hall. Mr. Keller will be buried in the Allegany Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations in Max's honor be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm and Carlton Sts., Buffalo, NY 14263. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.