William R. “Bill” Keesler, 60, passed away Friday, September 6, 2024, at his home in the company of his wife and daughters.

Born July 2, 1964, in Homestead Air Base, FL, he was the son of Robert Keesler (Joyce Shotts) of Bradford and Joanne P. (Beckwith) Roeder of Bradford. He was a 1982 graduate of Bradford Area High School.

On September 26, 1998, in Bradford, he married Traci (Holsinger) Keesler who survives.

Bill was employed at Georgia-Pacific and Zippo Manufacturing. In 2008 he purchased Gilbert’s Lift Truck Service and renamed the business, Keesler’s Lift Truck Service, which he operated until his death.

Throughout Bill’s life, he was a hard worker and devoted father. After work, in addition, he completed numerous side jobs, such as mowing for the township and many local fields and properties.

He was respected by many as a “jack of all trades”, there was never a job that he turned down. He touched so many through his working hands and strong work ethic. His home reflects so many of his talents and abilities of what he was able to create.

He was active in his daughters’ lives, taking them shooting, spending time with their beloved dogs, and passing on his work ethic. 

Through his many talents, he was able to bring his ideas to life. This was reflected in his ability to create traditions, such as making maple syrup and apple cider with his handmade equipment and presses. His daughters will definitely carry on his legacy.

He was a member of the Mt. Jewett Sportsman’s Club and the Sons of the American Legion Post 108. In his free time, he enjoyed skeet shooting, bird hunting with his dogs, and spending time with his special friend Jamis.

Surviving in addition to his parents and wife, are his two daughters Sydni Keesler and Kayli Keesler of Bradford, his cousin, Ed English of Derrick City, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Cindy (Denny) Gorton.

Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Bill’s Life on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 12 pm to 5 pm at the American Legion Post 108 in Bradford.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Memorials, if desired, may be given to Kids and Cancer, PO Box 1299, Bradford, PA  16701, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com