Robert D. Keller, Jr., 69, of Allentown, PA., left this world peacefully on Feb. 5, 2024, but not before first sharing his love, smiles, and witty humor with everyone fortunate enough to be in his presence. Robert was a man rich in friendship and love for close friends and strangers alike. It was impossible to meet Robert and not be drawn in by his gentle smile and the kindness he exuded.
He was born on Dec. 27, 1954, in Colorado Springs, CO, to the late Robert D. Keller, Sr. and Rose Marie. He attended Wilson High School and remained close friends with many of his classmates. After graduation and for the next 44 years, Bob had a colorful career at the “Big Red Place” where he was a highly admired Supervisor, amassing several notable accomplishments including the development of a Super Fe26 Oxide that allows objects to adhere to non-stick pans. Bob could fix just about anything, and his skill contributed to his collection of unique inventions and accomplishments. He used his experience working with high pressure stream boilers to invent a portable steam bucket. The vacuum jacketed steam bucket required zero energy and allowed effortless transport of small quantities of steam, becoming very popular with cleaning crews, and could be used as a green alternative to traditional cleaning products and sanitizers.
With over 20-years of experience in Water Treatment, Bob had a simple, but effective method, to map out the convection currents at a local holding pond. He found that if he placed an inflatable dolphin in the pond, it would begin to rock back and forth as it approached an area where cool molecules would sink, and warm molecules would rise. This would later be known as the “Delphinidae Bob Test”. Bob was also instrumental in the development of a material to block the effects of radiation decay on solar arrays used in space. The first test satellite with this technology has been broadcasting a special “BOB Day” message every third Wednesday of June, since its inception.
Many of Bob’s closest friends did not know that he had an amazing operatic tenor voice. He traveled frequently to perform the National Anthem at sporting events across the country. His grandkids would frequently call him by his nickname, “Mr. Palazzo.” A modest man, he was secretly most proud when the Queen invited him to sing at one of her jubilees. Never missing an opportunity to bring smiles to others, he graciously accepted, and sang the Major-General’s song, while juggling.
In 2021, at the young age of 66 Bob became a college graduate, earning his Bachelor’s degree in business administration at Muhlenberg College. He was beloved by the students and faculty, and proudly graduated with a GPA of 3.93, with Distinction, and named to the 2019-2021 Dean’s List. His time at Muhlenberg fostered his love of writing and he penned a fictional novel and started another before his passing.
Bob is deeply missed. He was an amazing and devoted father, father-in-law, grandfather and friend. He is survived by his two sons, Eric and Joshua; brother Richard; sister Robin and two grandchildren Nathan and Natalie. In lieu of flowers or donations, Bob would like everyone who is reading his obituary to smile and to do something kind for someone else. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
