Obituaries

Fast horses, a lead foot, an open ear and a constant smile about a new deal cooking is what those who loved Ray Keller will remember most of his time on Earth.

Kenneth was born on November 15, 1933 to Wilda and Gerald Osborn, in Ainsworth, NE and passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on June 12, 2020. He spent his growing up years in Ainsworth, graduating from AHS in 1951. Kenneth was known for his hometown nickname of “Goose” and for his friendliness, quick wit and sense of humor. In high school he excelled in sports, including football, basketball, track and baseball. He attended the University of Nebraska on a football scholarship playing the 1951/52 season before serving in the Army (Corporal) for two years during the Korean conflict. When the war ended, he returned to Ainsworth, where he met and married Anne Gilchrist, the love of his life, on June 9, 1957. They shared 63 wonderful years together. After graduating from NU with a BS in Economics, Ken worked for Wilson Foods in purchasing management in Omaha, Chicago and Oklahoma City until retirement. He then had a second career working at Guaranty (Prosperity) Bank for nearly 20 years as Purchasing Manager and Vice-President of Services Officer. Ken was devoted to his family and was a faithful Presbyterian, serving in many capacities and as an Elder for both Calvin and Covenant Presbyterian Churches. He sang in the choir (which would have surprised and pleased his mother Wilda), and he and Anne were Youth Leaders at Calvin. Ken volunteered in numerous organizations, including Mobile Meals, Boy Scouts, and served a number of years for Windsor Hills Neighborhood Assn. as Treasurer and President. He was also an officer of NU Alumni Assn. OKC. Ken impacted the lives of so many, coaching teams for all three children in softball, baseball, basketball, soccer and football. He loved following all his children and grandchildren’s activities and his beloved Nebraska Huskers. Ken enjoyed returning to Ainsworth for visits throughout the years and always kept in touch with his hometown family and friends.

Whether you knew him by Don, Donnie, Donald or Pop he was the same simple to the point kind of guy. In his day, he would attempt most anything whether it worked or not. Don started working at an early age, his desire to have a job and cash to spend continued beyond his retirement years. Some of Don’s happiest times were when he was in the company of family, friends and neighbors. He truly was a socializer even though he would tell you he WAS NOT!