Date of Birth: October 25, 1952
Date of Death: June 26, 2026
Bruce Murray Keller, born Oct. 25, 1952, to Alfred and Lily Keller (née Schatz), passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, with his family by his side.
Bruce was the second of four children and grew up attending Prairie School. From an early age, he knew that working with his hands was his true calling. At just 16, Bruce left home to begin working on pipeline projects in the Melfort area, later
moving to Alberta to work on oil rigs.
In December 1973, Bruce married the love of his life, Phyllis Loveridge. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work and devotion to family. They welcomed their son, Derek Bruce, in July of 1974, and their daughter, Lisa Dawn, in July of 1977.
That same year, Bruce began what would become a lifelong passion and career as a grader operator. He started working for the RM of Stanley in 1974, dedicating 31 years to maintaining the roads in his community. Bruce was known for his tireless work ethic, especially during snowstorms, when he would work around the clock to ensure roads were safe and passable. He formed lasting friendships with local farmers and became a familiar and welcome sight along rural roads.
At the age of 15, Bruce faced a major challenge when he contracted meningitis and lost his hearing. Determined not to let this define him, he adapted by mastering lip reading and continued working and connecting with those around him.
In 2002, he received a cochlear implant, restoring his hearing after more than three decades. Those who knew him fondly recall how much he enjoyed being able to talk on the phone again.
After retiring from the RM of Stanley in 2005, Bruce began a new chapter with Russell Redi-Mix, where he worked for 10 years across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, forming many new friendships. Still not ready for full retirement, he returned to grading roads with the RM of McLeod and later followed a respected supervisor to the RM of Grayson, where he worked until illness forced him to step away in October 2025. Bruce’s dedication to his work and the people he served never wavered.
Bruce faced his illness with remarkable strength, positivity, and humour, even through difficult setbacks. During his time in hospital, he formed meaningful connections with healthcare staff and expressed deep appreciation for their care.
Bruce was predeceased by his father, Alfred Keller; his parents-in-law, Ethel and Norman Loveridge; his brother-in-law, Allan Mathies; niece Kim Gattinger; and nephew Kevin Loveridge.
Bruce leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of over 52 years, Phyllis; his children, Derek (Allie Windsor) and Lisa (Ken Woodhouse); and his beloved grandchildren, Sheydon (Jordyn), DJ, Sarena and Alex. He is also survived by his mother, Lily Keller; his siblings, Brenda Schulte (Casper), Laurell Gattinger (Rodney) and Roger Keller; his in-laws, Larry Loveridge (Joanne), Shirley Graham (Doug), and Linda Mathies; his faithful companion Shadow; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Bruce leaves behind a legacy of hard work, perseverance, kindness and humour. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
The family extends sincere thanks to the healthcare staff at St. Peter’s Hospital for their compassion and care over the past several months.
Bruce’s funeral service was held Friday, July 3, 2026, at Matthews Funeral Home, Melville, following which he was laid to rest in the Melville City Cemetery.
Arrangements were entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home, Melville.
