Robert R. Keeler, 90, of Du Quoin, passed away at 3:58 P.M., Friday, December 4, 2020 at the Du Quoin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Du Quoin.

Bob had worked for GTE for 14 years. He then worked as a bulldozer operator for Freeman United Coal Company. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Du Quoin. Bob was a member of the V.F.W., American Legion and the UMWA. Bob was a United States Navy veteran of the Korean War, serving on the U.S.S. Cotten. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 1 Star, Navy Occupation Service Medal and the United Nation Service Medal. Bob was an avid gardner, raising giant tomatoes and zinnia flowers. He collected and refurbished old telephones. In later years, he enjoyed collecting and building model trains and building train villages for his trains to run through.

He was born November 17, 1930 at Du Quoin, IL, the son of Raymond and Mable (Howell) Keeler.

Robert married Mary L. "Tootie" Scarlett on March 22, 1952 at the First United Methodist Church in Du Quoin and she preceded him in death on January 10, 2017.

He is survived by two daughters - Cindy Broha of Pinckneyville and Jenylle Wathen and husband Van of Du Quoin, grandson - Kline Peradotta and wife Tiffany of Highland, great grandson - Dayton Reid Peradotta of Highland, and special friend - Paul Martin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son-in-law - Gary Showalter, two brothers - Marshall Keeler and Ralph Keeler and two sisters - Faye Roberts and Betty Licata.

Graveside service will be at 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Du Quoin with Rev. Rob Mathis officiating.

Friends may call from Noon until time of service on Tuesday at the cemetery.

Please use social distancing guidelines. Everyone in attendance is required to wear a mask.

Burial will be in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery at Du Quoin.

Military gravesite rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the United States Navy.

Friends may make memorials to the Du Quoin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Activity Fund or the Perry County Humane Society and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Searby Funeral Home of Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.