Joan Ruth Keller, formerly of Sheboygan Falls, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025 at Heritage Square in Greendale. She was 90 years old.
Joan was born to Paul and Meta (Hoffmann) Baumgartner on September 8th, 1934.
She married Raymond Keller on November 26th, 1955. Together they had 3 sons – Jay Keller of Green Bay, Jeff Keller of Pound, Jack Keller of Greenfield.
Joan lived most of her life in Sheboygan Falls. She was a well-known fixture and familiar face for many years at The Villager Restaurant, where she worked as a waitress, hostess and bartender. She did just about everything but work in the kitchen. Joan was a beautiful person, but not the best cook. Her family, her coworkers and many residents of Sheboygan Falls knew her as “Ma Bear.” She was an avid reader, and she never missed an episode of Jeopardy.
Joan was preceded in death by three brothers, three sisters, her ex-husband Ray, and her grandson Andrew Keller.
She is survived by her three sons, granddaughters Bobbi (Julio) Estupinan and Liza (Adam) Mulloy, great-grandchildren Dominik and Roman Estupinan, Raleigh, Salem and Dallas Mulloy, sister-in-law Mary Lou Baumgartner, brother-in-law Floyd Wallo, son Jack’s partner Ben Pigeon, son Jeff’s partner Tammy Short, and many nephews and nieces, including special niece Sandra Jakum, who was so very good to her during her final years.
A private family gathering will be held, and Joan will be laid to rest at Waldo Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to your local humane society.
Joan’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff of the Heritage Square Nursing Facility in Greendale, especially RN Uni, for the care and compassion they showed her over her final two years, as well as Holistic Home Hospice for her final days.
Wenig Funeral Home – Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting the family. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for online condolences.
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