Alan E. Keller, Jr.

Alan E. Keller Jr., 55, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on April 28, surrounded by the care and compassion of those who knew and loved him. He was born on February 15, 1971, to Alan E. Keller Sr. and Janet Keller.

Alan lived a life filled with connection, joy, and determination. Growing up, he was an active participant in Special Olympics, where he embraced both the spirit of competition and the friendships it brought. He also loved water skiing, a pastime that reflected his adventurous side and brought him great happiness. In addition, Alan enjoyed hunting with his dad, a time they shared together that held special meaning for him.

Alan spent time working in sheltered workshop programs and later held a job at McDonald’s in his younger years. He took pride in his work and the relationships he formed along the way, and he was always supported by people who encouraged his independence and celebrated his accomplishments.

Throughout his life, Alan was supported by devoted caregivers who became like family, and he returned that care with genuine warmth and kindness.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Alan’s caregivers for the love, patience, and dedication they showed him throughout his life. They took him everywhere and helped him experience life to the fullest, creating countless memories that will always be cherished.

Alan had a gift that everyone who met him remembered. His favorite question—“When is your birthday?”—was more than a simple greeting. Once you told him, he never forgot. It was his special way of connecting with people and making them feel important, and it never failed to bring a smile.

He shared a special bond with his twin sister, Amy, and the two never missed a chance to debate who was older—though Amy was always quick to remind him she had the undeniable advantage of two full minutes.

He is survived by his father, Alan E. Keller Sr.; his mother, Janet Keller; his twin sister, Amy (Keller) Littleton; his brother-in-law, Tim Littleton; his special friends, Mark and Matt Scheipeter; many loving relatives; and his devoted caregivers—Krystal, Rachel, Michelle, Vivian, Tammy, Elizabeth, Haley, Tasha, and Heather—along with many friends whose lives were brightened by knowing him.

Visitation will be held Monday, May 4, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at John Ziegenhein & Son’s, 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd., St. Louis, MO 63129. The funeral service will take place the following morning, May 5, at 10:00 AM at Peace Lutheran Church, 737 Barracksview Rd., St. Louis, MO 63125, with an hour of visitation prior to the service. Immediately following, there will be a cemetery ceremony and interment at St. Trinity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Peace Lutheran Church.

In honoring Alan’s memory, those who knew him might consider doing something he did so naturally—remembering someone’s birthday and celebrating it, just as he always did.

Alan’s life was a reminder that the simplest gestures can leave the deepest impressions, and he will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him.