March 26, 1934 – December 4, 2024
Peacefully passed at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 at the age of 90 years. Beloved husband of the late Mary Jane Keller (2024) for 70 years. Loving father of Carol Anne (John) Brinkman, Kathy (Douglas) Robbins, Paul (Michelle) Keller and Brian Keller (Kerri-Lynn). Proud grandfather of Rachel Brinkman, Jason Brinkman, Justine Keller, Kaitlyn Keller, Nathan Keller and great grandfather of Oren Saltzman and Linden Saltzman (Rachel), Hendrick Sabin and Elora Jane Sabin (Justine). Will be sadly missed by extended family members and many dear friends.
Stuart began his life in Chatham, Ontario. As a teen, he could be found making milk shakes and sundaes at the lunch counter at his Dad’s (Norman Keller) pharmacy. After attending Haileybury Mining School, he married the love of his life, “Janey” (Mary Jane Labombard) and began surveying for Preston Mines in South Porcupine. He then progressed to engineering at Denison Mines in Elliot Lake where he became Chief Engineer, developing mining “firsts” in ventilation projects. Stu was always involved with community activities wherever he lived, including the Investment Club, Bridge Club, Curling Club, and Town Planning in Elliot Lake.
Stu and Jane both loved the water and boats, especially sailing, and Stu became a key core member in establishing the North Channel Yacht Club at Serpent Harbour. In later life, he retired to Port Lambton, then built a house in Grand Bend, next came Port Dover and finally, Barrie. But above all, his most favourite place was the family cottage at Meldrum Bay, Manitoulin Island.
In keeping with Stu’s wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements are entrusted to the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie. Memorial donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Diabetes Canada would be greatly appreciated by the family. Condolences and memories may be shared via www.steckleygooderham.com