John Alan Keller, 39, of Topeka, Kansas, went to his heavenly home on Tuesday, November 23, 2021. He was a beloved father, a committed educator, and a devoted Christ-like servant leader.
John was born on December 7, 1981, in Goodland, Kansas, to Mark and Gwen (Dirks) Keller. He was immersed in the Christian faith from birth, and was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran Church in St. Francis, Kansas. John attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney and Divine Mercy University, graduating with a BA and MA degree respectively in psychology. He taught psychology and coached wrestling at Topeka High School where he met his wife.
After a short courtship filled with Skittles and Sour Patch Kids, John married Emily Bradshaw on October 7, 2017, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topeka. John raised three children with patience, selflessness, and love. He walked them to Dairy Queen, taught them Pokémon Go!, and listened to endless Blippi songs. Most importantly, he set the example for his children by regularly taking them to church. He is dearly missed by his family who celebrate the fact he rests in the arms of Jesus.
John was a true educator. He taught students how to think critically and to apply psychology principles to their daily life. He was calm, kind, and rarely raised his voice. He was respected by his students, their families, and faculty members.
John is survived by his wife, Emily; his sons, Layne, Micah, and Caleb; his parents, Mark and Gwen Keller; his brother, sister-in-law, and nephew, Luke, Karen, and Chet Keller; and grandparents, John and Karen Keller and Ann Dirks. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his brother Carl Keller and grandfather Tobias Dirks.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 901 SW Fillmore in Topeka, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Christian burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 6th and Gage. Memorial contributions may made to the Keller Childrens Education Fund and sent to Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66604.
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