COLUMBUS
Raymond George Keller, 90, of Columbus, passed away on February 23, 2026.
Born on February 10, 1936, in Evansville, IN, Ray was the son of George and Pauline (Redicker) Keller. He graduated from Purdue University in 1957 with a degree in electrical engineering. While at Purdue, he met the love of his life, Gwen List. They were married in 1959 and began a devoted partnership that spanned more than six decades.
Following college, Ray moved to California, where he worked in the aerospace industry for nine years. In 1966, he and his family relocated to Columbus, Indiana, where he joined Cummins Inc. at the Technical Center. During his 15 years there, he furthered his education by earning his MBA from Indiana University.
In 1981, Ray became President of AVL North America, serving in that role until 1991. He later joined the start-up Cybermetrix as a part owner. After retiring in 2001, he continued to serve on the company’s board of directors until its sale, providing steady leadership and thoughtful counsel.
Ray was deeply committed to his community. He served with the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce and the Columbus Human Rights Commission, contributing his time and leadership to initiatives that strengthened the city he loved.
A man of strong faith, Ray was active in Lutheran churches in both California and Indiana. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church and later of First Lutheran Church. He and Gwen were devoted participants in the Walk to Emmaus movement.
Ray greatly enjoyed time spent with his family, especially on family trips. He cherished his role as “Pop Pop” to his grandchildren. He was an avid reader and could often be found working on crossword puzzles or carefully assembling jigsaw puzzles. He learned to fly through the Cummins Flight Club and maintained a lifelong interest in aviation. He was also a lover of music, finding joy and inspiration in it through listening and singing in church choirs.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Gwen Keller; his sons, Daniel (Kathi) Keller of Indianapolis and Brian (MaryBeth) Keller of Annandale, VA; and his daughter, Jeannie (Mark) Newell of Columbus. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Morgan, Corey, and Lily; Joshua (Olivia), Thomas (Brenna), and Grace; and Allie (Mac), Sydney (Nhiet), Sam, and Eli; and by his great-grandson, Jack. He is further survived by his sister, Clara Kloeden of Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Grace, Alice, and Betty; and his brothers, George, Paul, and Alvin Keller.
Ray will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, faith, devotion to family, and his steady, thoughtful presence. His generous spirit and commitment to serving others leave a lasting legacy in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana or First Lutheran Church.
The funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, March 2, 2026 at First Lutheran Church with the Rev. Amy Bartleson Balcam officiating.
Family and friends may gather for a time of visitation from 10:00 a.m. to time of service Monday at the church.
Mr. Keller will be laid to rest at the Garland Brook Cemetery.
Arrangements by Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home.
Condolences and special memories may be shared with the Keller family and a video tribute may be viewed at barkesweaverglick.com
