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Frances Meshner Keller ’37

Frances Mesher Keller ’37, September 10, 2011, in Seattle, Washington. Frances was 16 when she entered Reed. She studied at the college for two years and later completed a BA in sociology at the University of Washington. In 1940, she married Howard S. Keller ’37. They established a successful, multistate, wholesale plumbing business, the Keller Supply Company. Frances was devoted to her family; enjoyed a good mental challenge, a game of cards or Scrabble; and treasured her travels with Howard. They were active in their community, especially for endeavors related to children and education. They provided funding for the Keller Children’s Fund for the Jewish Family Service; the Howard and Frances Keller Faculty Research Fund in support of history and social sciences at Reed College; the Howard and Frances Keller Endowed Professorship in History and the Howard and Frances Keller Research Fund at the University of Washington; and the Frances and Howard Keller Family Lecture Series at Temple De Hirsch Sinai. Frances is remembered for her kindness, strength, quick wit, and no-nonsense approach. Survivors include her daughter and two sons, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Howard died in 2009.

Appeared in Reed magazine: March 2012

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