Keller, Elva Quest
FORT WORTH, Texas - Former Great Falls resident Elva (Quest) Keller, 89, a World War II Marine Corps Reserve veteran, died of natural causes Jan. 19 at her daughter's home in Fort Worth, Texas.
Burial with military honors is noon Feb. 5 in Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, followed by a wake to celebrate her life. Robertson Mueller Harper Funerals & Cremations of Fort Worth is in charge of arrangements.
Born in St. Louis, Mo., in 1920, Elva was the daughter of Albert and Amelia (Goeke) Quest. One of the things she was most proud of was being able to say she was a member of the Women's Marine Corps Reserve during World War II, stationed in Washington, D.C.
After the war, she married Mike Keller, her friend, love and companion, on Dec. 1, 1945.
Elva was a wonderful mother, raising three children to be successful and independent. She supported them in all of their endeavors, singing and piano for Janice, baseball and the Boy Scouts for David and swimming for Karen.
She celebrated two main seasons, Christmas and baseball. Her earthly passion for almost all of her life was all things baseball. Whether keeping score or supporting her favorite team, she always had a strong opinion, which she was always willing to tell you about.
Elva was a charter member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Great Falls, Mont., where she was active in the Altar Guild. Many of the chrisoms that are still placed on the Christmas tree in the sanctuary are ones she handmade with love. She lived her life as a Christian, her daily life and how she treated her friends and family, speaking for her faith.
Mrs. Keller was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved friend and husband of 59 years, Mike; and her daughter, Janice.
In addition to her son, David Keller and his wife, Linda, of Lynden, Wash.; and daughter, Karen Keller and her husband, Robert Martinez, of Fort Worth; Elva is survived by her grandsons, Jonathan Redditt and his wife, Randi, Timothy Redditt and Karl and Marc Keller; great- grandchildren Logan and Jade; many friends; and her guardian angel dog, Cassie.
In lieu of flowers, consideration of contributions to the Women Marines Association or a charity of choice, honoring Elva's memory, is suggested.
Condolences may be posted online at www.gftribune.com/obituaries.
Published in Great Falls Tribune on January 31, 2010