Jeames E. “Jim” Keller, 89, was called to Heaven on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Edgewood Vista Memory Care in Mandan, ND. Surrounded by love throughout his life, Jim leaves behind a legacy built on hard work, faith, and deep devotion to his family.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 26 at 11:00 AM at the Bismarck Funeral Home. Visitation will be Tuesday, November 25 from 5-7 PM with a time of sharing beginning at 7:00PM. Burial will be at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Jim was born on October 20, 1936, in Strasburg, ND, to Peter E. and Monica (Richter) Keller. He spent his early childhood in Strasburg before the family moved to Bismarck when he was seven. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1954, already known as a dependable young man with a gentle spirit.

In 1955, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and attended Weather School. He was honorably discharged in 1959 and returned home to Bismarck, where he began what would become a lifelong craft. A talented and meticulous carpenter, Jim helped build countless homes, apartments, twin homes, and even a church in the Bismarck area. He later went into business with his brother George, forming Keller Construction—an experience he cherished as much for the time spent with family as for the work itself.

On August 8, 1959, Jim married the love of his life, Bonita “Bonnie” Witkowski, in Mandan. Together they raised five children in the Bismarck–Mandan area, creating a home filled with faith, laughter, and the kind of everyday joys that become treasured memories. Family camping and fishing trips were among Jim’s favorite times, and he especially loved sharing the outdoors with his children and eventually his grandchildren.

After retiring from construction in 1989, he embarked on a new chapter as Head of Maintenance at Mandan Junior High School, where his steady presence and kind nature earned the respect of staff and students alike. He remained there until 1999.

Music was one of Jim’s greatest joys. He played guitar and harmonica, and he shared his gift generously. As a member of the group “Gospel Sounds,” he visited local nursing homes, bringing comfort and happiness through song—a reflection of the compassion he carried so naturally.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie; his children, Tom, Cathy (Randy) Ehlis, and Becky Ressler; daughter-in-law; Lois Keller; 10 grandchildren, Brandyn (Keri) Ehlis, Brittany (Mike) Kennedy, Torrea (Geoff) West, Nicolette Lemu, Sarah (Corey) Peterson, Kayla (Curry) Quinette, Amy Ressler, Katelynn Keller, Jered (Lucy) Keller, and Jaden Keller and 18 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents; seven siblings; sons, Dan and Joe; grandson, Desmond Keller; son-in-law, Allan Ressler; and grandson-in-law, Joseph Lemu.

Jim’s life was one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and love expressed through service—to his country, his community, and most of all, his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.