Restaurateur Bernard (Bernie) S. Keller died April 26 from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. He was 84.
The Milwaukee native owned and operated five restaurants throughout his career: Keller’s Diner and Bernie’s Drive-In, both in Ft. Meyers, Fla.; Bernie’s Deli and Bernie’s and Pappy’s, both in Glendale; and the Port Road Inn in Fox Point.
One of seven children born to Martha and Morris Keller, he attended Washington High School. In 1942, he joined the U.S Army and participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. After his service, he attended the University of Miami and Marquette University, from which he earned a bachelor of business administration in 1950.
A member of Congregation Shalom, he belonged to the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
According to his family, his top priority was his family. He was also interested in physical fitness, gardening, woodworking, cooking and artistic endeavors such as painting and stained glass.
“He was a very proud member of the military and the Jewish faith,” said his wife, Elaine Keller.
He is further survived by daughters Lee Anne Keller and Dana (Pradip) Gopal, both of Alpharetta, Ga.; son Scott (Marcy) Keller of Odessa, Fla.; brother Clifford (Joan) Keller of Port Washington; and four grandchildren.
Burial was in Second Home Cemetery. Rabbi Ronald Shapiro officiated. Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home handled funeral arrangements.
The family would appreciate memorial contributions to Congregation Shalom, 7630 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53217; Susan G. Komen for the Cure, ww5.komen.org; or the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.
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