James W. Keyser, 96, passed away peacefully in his home in Clearwater FL, with family at his side on April 21, 2019. He was the son of the late James R Keyser and Burnetta (nee Dimmer)Keyser of Toledo OH. He was born June 29, 1922 in Toledo OH.
He graduated in 1940 from Edward Drummond Libbey High school Toledo OH. After high school he attended college then later joined the United States Navy during WWII. He served proudly as a Dental Technician and instructor for nearly 26 yrs. retiring as a Chief Petty Officer in 1967.
He then embarked in another career as supervisor of dental technician school in the NE Federal Penitentiary in Lewisburg PA then later transferring to the VA Clinic in Orlando FL. After retirement from the VA, he became a real estate broker working for the Don Gallerger Real Estate office in Orlando FL.
He enjoyed serving his military family via being Chaplain for VFW Post 4287 Orlando FL as well as a lifetime member, so lifetime member of the American Legion Post 105 Bethesda-Chevy Chase MD, 50+member ship with the Fleet Reserves. Also lifetime member of Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of Ohio Paragon Lodge No.788 of Millbury OH. Also served in the High Twelve in Orlando FL. He also served in his youth in the DeMoley in Toledo OH.
He was predeceased in death by his first wife of 54 yrs. Lucille F (nee;Howell) Keyser, and his second wife of 12 yrs Dorothy (nee;Allison) Keyser, his only sibling Commander Carroll R Keyser, grandson Douglas M Stettler, and only nephew Commander Thomas J Keyser.
He is survived by three children, Richard J Keyser of Orlando FL, Gerald A Keyser of Ranson WV, and Vicki L Stettler of Clearwater FL. Four grandchildren Christina Douglas of Jacksonville FL, Laura Keyser of Pasadena MD, Joseph R Stettler of Nanticoke Pa, and Adam B Stettler of Clearwater FL., six great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren, and Niece Susan Keyser of Lawrenceville GA.
Services will be at a later date in Toledo, OH with internment at Ottawa Hills Cemetery beside his first wife.
James’s wish was that in lieu of flowers donations be made to a veterans’ charity.
Jim was such a kind and sweet man. I will miss him.
We did not get to see him that often, but when we did we had a great time. So sorry for your loss but I know you have lots of great memories.