ERNST KELLER

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ERNST KELLER Peacefully, on October 9, 2010, at Deer Lodge Centre, Ernst Keller passed away at the age of 74. Left to honour his memory is his wife Gisele (nee Oppermann), son Ernest Raymond (Jo-Ann), daughters Susan and Nancy (Dan Smith). He is also survived by his sister Frieda Pretzer, and brothers Erich (Jenny) and Arthur (Ingrid); sister-in-law Rose Fuith, brother and sister-in-law Hart and Carol Oppermann as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Emma (nee Kupski) and Eduard. Born in Luzk, Poland on November 12, 1935, Ernst came to Canada in 1954 to begin his learned trade of bricklaying. In 1959 he formed a well respected masonry company, which later grew into the general contracting company of Ernie Keller Contractors. He is past president of the Winnipeg Construction Association, past Chairman and founder of the Labour Relations Association of Manitoba where he served as National Chairman for two years. Ernst represented the Manitoba Construction Industry in Ottawa, and Internationally in Geneva. He was appointed in 1994 by the three levels of government as chairperson of The Forks North Portage Partnership where he served until 2000. His lasting impact on the face of Manitoba includes his building projects such as Grant Memorial Baptist Church, Boeing of Canada, Lone Star Harley Davidson, Fort Garry Curling Club, Portage Place and numerous other projects for both the private and public sectors. In 1989 Ernst was awarded the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, Manitoba's highest honour, in recognition of his dedicated service to the community for his significant contribution to cultural education in Manitoba. For several years, Ernst was a member of Khartum Temple Shriners, which included time as President of the Motor Patrol. His devotion to St. Peter's Church and its community included church council membership, where he was known for his big heart, generosity, and active involvement in its development and construction. Ernst will be mostly remembered for his deep devotion to his grandchildren Samson, Bailie, Benjamin, Kieran and Cole. Opa's whistle of support could be heard across the fields or rinks, letting them know he was always behind them. Sunday breakfasts with his grandchildren were his honour and joy. The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and volunteers of the Deer Lodge Centre, and Seven Oaks Hospital and Dialysis Unit for their excellent care and support. Thank you also to friends and family for their kindness. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 16 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 65 Walnut St. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kidney Foundation of Canada, Manitoba Branch, 452 Dovercourt Dr., Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1G4, or St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 65 Walnut St., Winnipeg, MB R3G 1N9.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 14, 2010