SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — David Kanis Keller,

aged 68, peacefully passed on March 19, 2024, in Springfield, Mo., with his family nearby. Having grown up in Little Rock, David is preceded in death by his parents, Carl F. Keller Sr. and Eleanora McGehee Keller. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Jeanne Gray Keller; and their daughter, Amelia Faith Meier; his brother, Carl F. Keller Jr., of Little Rock, was always there with his love and support, especially during David’s recent health battles. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Ellie Faith Meier, Allison Grace Brooks, and Blake Michael Brooks (Springfield, Mo.); nephew, Carl F. Keller III (Kate); nieces, Mary Katherine Keller and Mia Grace Fowler. Numerous cousins from his Texas ancestry held a special place in his life. A proud member of Scouts BSA, and Order of the Arrow, David was awarded Scouting’s highest rank of Eagle. David was a 1973 graduate of Catholic High School for Boys, and 1977 graduate of Westminster College, Fulton, Mo. He was a member of the Delta Tau chapter of Sigma Chi, and a Life Loyal Sig.

David held a variety of interests, especially in Oenology. His career began as General Manager of Springhill Wine & Spirits, former president of the Little Rock chapter of Les Amis du Vin, and contributed a weekly wine article to the Arkansas Democrat. Later, he formed his own company, Hospitality Sales and Service, representing a variety of producers, importers and wholesalers of fine wines and spirits. After moving to Springfield, David continued sharing his knowledge of wines at Brown Derby Wine Center. From each of these endeavors, he made, enjoyed and maintained many friendships, both near and far. His love of wines afforded him the opportunities to visit firsthand the wine regions of France and California, which were especially memorable for him. Of particular highlight was his opportunity to meet Baroness Phillippine de Rothschild (the Baron’s daughter), and his possession of a personally signed copy of Mouton Rothschild Paintings for the Labels, 1945-1981, by Baron Philip de Rothschild. He had a true interest in American history. His family recalls every family vacation had, to include a historical site visit, an over-night lodging experience, or stop at a museum or memorial landmark. Each of these will be remembered by his family, now reflecting with experienced appreciation. David loved reading books, telling stories, and singing silly songs with Amelia, and later, with his grandchildren. He remained in constant contact with his junior high and high school friends, and maintained a strong bond with his Sigma Chi brothers. There was always a story to be told. Arrangements will be announced, at a later date, at gormanscharpf.com. In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make a contribution to Catholic High School for Boys, Little Rock, Ark., The Sigma Chi Leadership Scholarship Fund, Westminster College, Fulton, Mo., or charity of your choice.