Mark Jens Keller

Age 71 of St. Joseph, Wisconsin, passed away on August 30, 2025.

Mark was born in Stillwater, Minnesota and raised in Bayport. His life centered around his family and the St. Croix River. He had a lifelong love for boating, camping, and fishing, often enjoying time on his boat, The Croix Scout. He also loved traveling, golfing, hunting, skiing, playing a blues harmonica, reading, and motorcycling.

Mark graduated from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a master’s degree in education and an administrative degree. He taught English at Stillwater High School and later served as a principal in a small Wisconsin district. He ran the alternative program for a time at Stillwater, where he had a unique ability to connect with at-risk students. Many former students remember him as a positive influence, one who made a lasting impact on their lives. Mark also gave back to his community, serving for many years on the Hudson United Way board.

Above all, Mark’s family was his greatest joy He shared 45 years of marriage with his wife Jody and cherished the time he had with his daughters and grandchildren. He loved fishing and golfing with his grandson Peyton, pulling up Stone crab pots in the Keys with his daughter Ricki, watching the grandsons’ sporting events, and listening to his daughter Joie sing at various venues near and far.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Ruth Keller. He is survived by his wife, Jody (Moen) Keller, daughters; Rickelle (Mike) Mondor, and Joie (Matt) Booth; grandsons Carter and Graham Booth, Peyton and Parker Mondor; brothers Daniel (Thuy) Keller, Paul (Pam) Keller; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at the St. Croix Yacht Club (Sunnyside Marina in Stillwater) on Friday, September, 12 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Please come ready to share any fun - and perhaps crazy stories about Mark. There are sure to be more than a few.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations Mark cared deeply about: United Way, Minnesota Public Radio, or National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.