Courtney George Keller

On March 1, 2021, Courtney George Keller, of Sangudo, AB, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 years. Courtney was born in Provost, AB, to Peter and Dorothy Keller, the first of three siblings. He grew up and spent most of his 79 years in the Sangudo area, “the best place to live”. He married his high school sweetheart Gloria in 1963, and they joyfully welcomed their son, Michael, in April of 1967. Courtney’s bright mind and quick wit made for an interesting and varied life. He could fix anything, including the many vehicles he owned during his life, and he was an accomplished builder, carpenter, and luthier, besides being a gifted musician. After graduating from the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, his first year of teaching was in Whitecourt, AB. The remainder of Courtney’s career in education was as vice principal in Mayerthorpe, AB’s middle and high schools where he especially enjoyed teaching shop skills to his students. Following his early retirement from teaching, Courtney began working with Gloria and they painted houses and made and installed cabinets. One of his building projects was the renovation and expansion of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Sangudo; the parish in which Courtney and Gloria were involved for many years. Another notable project was the design and building of the grain elevator sundial at the entrance to Sangudo. Courtney inherited his love and talent for music from his parents and from his early years on, he always played in a band on drums or keyboard. Gloria joined Courtney’s musical world where together they jammed at home and delighted their snowbird friends during the twenty years they wintered in Arizona. In his later years Courtney’s passion was crafting guitars and many ukuleles for the famous Langley Ukulele Ensemble. He leaves many people mourning his passing. Courtney is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Gloria; son, Michael (Hope); granddaughters, Hannah, and Kate; sister, Sharon (George); and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Dorothy (1978); and brother, Beverly (July 4, 1970). Many thanks to the staff of the Mayerthorpe Hospital Auxiliary Wing for their compassionate care, with special thanks to niece Janice for her loving kindness during Courtney’s lengthy illness. A private memorial service will take place with inurnment in South Park Cemetery, Sangudo, under the direction of Park Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.