Richard H. "Rich" Keiser

Mr. Richard H. "Rich" Keiser, Sr., age 62, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 11, 2009 at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with his loving wife by his side. Born in Herkimer, NY on August 20, 1947, Richard was the son of the late Hubert and Marjorie (Mitchell) Keiser. He was raised and educated in Herkimer. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served his country from 1967-1969. On December 19, 1981 he married the former Mary E. DeBlois with whom he shared 27 years in a solid relationship founded on mutual love, respect, and devotion. Rich worked as a cab driver for Courtesy Cab and City Cab for 31 years. As the 2nd oldest teenager in the Utica area, music was his life, and at one time he was a “sock hop” disc jockey. Blessed with a humorous, light-hearted nature, he was generous and willing to lend a hand in any way possible, never expecting anything in return. His family was everything to him, especially his children and grandchildren. He loved the simple pleasures of life, like enjoying a ride with his family to appreciate the serenity of the outdoors, stopping for ice cream, or spending the day at Glimmerglass Beach or Verona State Park. He was a classic car enthusiast, especially favoring the “woody”, an old fashioned station wagon. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Frankfort Chapter #178, and the American Legion Post #229. Rich kept to himself his personal spiritual beliefs and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Utica. Rich is survived by his wife, Mary; his daughters, Jennifer Holub, and Caroline Keiser; his son, Richard Keiser, Jr., all of Utica; and his grandchildren, Julian Kaczor IV, Christopher Holub, Darlene Holub, and Bryan Geary. Survivors also include his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, friends, Chris Sebastian, who was like a brother, and Ron Service; and his dear friend, Hank Brown, who was his life mentor, along with many other dear and cherished friends. He was predeceased by his brother, James Keiser. The family is grateful to the nurses and staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center Emergency Room for their efforts and compassion. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Rich’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday afternoon at 5:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Pastor Ann Wicks officiating.

Richard H. "Rich" Keiser

August 20, 1947 - October 11, 2009