Larry Duane Keeler, 88, of Riverdale, MI, peacefully passed away on May 24, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1938, to Dewey and Gretchen Keeler.
Larry married his sweetheart, Ione (Carrick), on March 21, 1959. They spent a lifetime side by side writing their story, one adventure at a time. They had four children: Danny, Duane, Randal, and Sharle.
Larry owned and operated Larry’s Electric for over 55 years, earning the nickname “Sparky.” At one point or another throughout the years, all of his children and several relatives worked for the family business. His customers knew that they could depend on him to help them anytime, night or day. Although Larry’s Electric officially closed in October of 2025, customers were still seeking out Larry for his expertise.
Larry enjoyed listening to music and playing the guitar. Over the years, he played in several bands, including The Mustangs. Larry was also a man who loved the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who always seemed to be able to catch a fish anywhere and anytime, even when others came out empty-handed. This skill earned him the nickname “Toilet Bowl Larry,” meaning he could land a fish out of a toilet. Larry and Ione’s first date was a day of fishing, and right away he knew that Ione was a keeper.
He also enjoyed hunting, camping, and using his sawmill. If Larry was not working on a project in his shop, he could usually be found in the woods sawing lumber. Larry has left his mark in multiple places throughout the community. He spent countless hours volunteering to make his local community a better place. If you are in the Riverdale area and see a wooden building in Lumberjack Park, a bench along the river, or a wooden accent piece, there is a good chance that Larry was involved in building it.
Larry was a true role model. Larry easily accomplished more by 10 a.m. than most people get done in an entire day. He enjoyed helping his children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors, and others. Larry was a great friend to so many. He will truly be missed.
Larry is survived by his wife, Ione Keeler; his sons, Danny (Kathy) Keeler, Duane (Karin) Keeler, and Randal (Michele) Keeler; his daughter, Sharle (Randy) Marsh; and his siblings, Ernestine (Don) Wolf and Steve Keeler. He also has many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Gretchen Keeler; and his siblings, Alfred Keeler, Merton Keeler, Raymond Keeler, Betty Thompson, and Donna Keeler.
Out of respect for Larry’s wishes, there will be no service. If you wish to make a donation in his memory, please consider the Pine River Recreation Club, Heartland Hospice, or any charity of your choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.
