Willard Keiser, 85, passed away on Sept. 20, 2026, at Gothenburg Health in Gothenburg.
Willard was born on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 1940, in Gothenburg to Edwin and Gladys (Duis) Keiser.
He was baptized and confirmed in the American Lutheran Church and remained grounded in his faith throughout his life. He attended local schools and graduated with the Gothenburg High School Class of 1958. Dedicated to serving his community and country, Willard served in the National Guard in Lexington from 1959 to 1965.
On Sept. 3, 1966, Willard was united in marriage to Laura Tuttle. Together, they built a life centered on hard work, love, and devotion, raising two children, Jim and Pam.
Willard was a farmer through and through. He loved the land, thrived working outdoors, and dedicated most of his life to farming until his retirement in 1991. Even after stepping back from the fields, his love for outdoor work never waned - he took immense pride in his yard, keeping his lawn in immaculate condition. Willard also spent many years behind the wheel as a professional truck driver, hauling for Brede Trucking, NSG, Rick Selling, Bart Lang Trucking, and Tuffy Lammers Trucking.
Outside of work, Willard was known for his warm hospitality. He loved firing up the grill, cooking for friends and neighbors, and gathering on the patio to share good laughs. He loved watching football and cheering on the Huskers. Above all, family was the cornerstone of his life. He cherished every moment spent with them, and his granddaughters were truly his pride and joy.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Gladys Keiser; son, James Keiser; his in-laws, Ramon and Thelma Tuttle, Clara Mae Leibhart; son-in-law, Patrick Aden; and brother, Bob Keiser.
Survivors include his wife, Laura Keiser; daughter, Pam (boyfriend Brendan Gallagher) Aden; granddaughters, Rhiannon (boyfriend Dylon and son Hayden Owen), and Neriah; sister-in-law, Elaine Keiser; sisters and brothers-in-law, Clifford (Mina) Tuttle, Shirley (Glen) Stomback, Rose Smith, Larry Westbrook, Melvin (Deb) Westbrook, Karen (Cliff) Horn, Roy Westbrook, Susan (Dave) Garcia; along with many nieces and nephews, extended family and special friends and his dog Harmony.
A funeral service was held Thursday, Sept. 24, at American Lutheran Church in Gothenburg, with Pastor Doug Hjelmstad officiating. Burial was at American Lutheran Cemetery in Gothenburg. Memorials may be given to the American Lutheran Church.
Online condolences can be made at www.blasestrauser. com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel & Monuments in Gothenburg.