Charles Irvin Keller, a cherished husband, devoted father, loving grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on May 15, 2026, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, following a short but courageous battle with cancer. He was 83 years old.
Born on June 3, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio, Charles was the son of the late Floyd and Florence Keller. He spent his formative years in Columbus, Ohio, graduating from Central High School in 1960. Charles proudly served his country for seven years in the Army National Guard, where he was honorably discharged after training soldiers for tank warfare in Vietnam while stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland.
On November 5, 1986, Charles married the love of his life, Denise Keller, who survives him. Their union brought together a loving blended family.
Charlie's greatest joy came from his family and friends, whom he loved with all his heart, and who loved him in return. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Florence Keller; his son, Alan Keller (November 5, 2020); and his son-in-law, Gary Nicholson (March 1, 2026).
He is survived by his beloved wife, Denise Keller; his children: Jay Hearld (Erin), Bradley Keller (Angie), and Thonja Nicholson. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Joshua Mason (Kahri), Breanna Smeltzer (Jake), Rachel Jones (Jason), Bailey Keller, Landen Koch, Lucas Hearld, Bella Hearld, Jennifer Oliver (Jordan), and Amy Oliver (Larry). His great-grandchildren include August Smeltzer, Georgia Mason, Ben Slattery, Emma Slattery, Max Slattery, Sam Slattery, Zach Slattery, Will Slattery, Cannon Oliver, Callie Oliver, and Casen Oliver. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, David Rhodes (Tina) and Rob Rhodes (Patty), and many nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.
Charles's life was marked by a diverse and successful career. He sold real estate in Florida for many years, built a thriving financial business selling insurance and annuities in Indiana, and, with Denise, co-owned and operated two popular ice cream stores named "Strawberry Fields" in Florida. Together they also owned Dennis Signs, which did graphic sign printing for many local Fort Wayne businesses, golf courses and Fort Wayne Komets. He currently operated CD Enterprises, which provided advertising for golf courses.
Charlie, as he was affectionately known, was a man of many passions. He was an avid golfer, boasting four hole-in-ones throughout his lifetime. His first achieved at Pine Valley Golf Course in Fort Wayne, IN. He enjoyed bowling with his parents, family and friends, and his love for card games led him to travel to Las Vegas, Nevada, for numerous Poker Tournaments. In his younger years, he even tried out for the Pittsburgh Pirates, showcasing his talent for baseball.
A true animal lover, Charlie cherished his furry companions, both dogs and cats. Some of his special four-legged friends include Spirit, Snowball, Petey, Sammy, Gracie, Pansy, Baby, Ricky, Caillou and Smokey. His home was a haven for local wildlife, with their front porch serving as a welcoming "buffet" for any critter in need of a meal and fresh water. Often taking those stray animals to the veterinarian for treatment.
Charlie's life journey led him from Columbus, Ohio, to Fort Wayne, Indiana, in the early 1970s, with a period of residence in Bonita Springs, Florida, before returning to Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Fair Haven Funeral Home, located at 6557 N Clinton St., Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825. An additional time of visitation will take place on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Graveside services and Military Honors will immediately follow at Highland Cemetery, 2403 E Wallen Rd., Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825.
Memorial donations may be made in his name to the Fort Wayne Humane Society, 901 St. Francis Drive, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46808.