Elmwood Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Visitation Information

Michael Keilman

Passed away on March 4, 2026

Michael J. Keilman, 81, of Griffith, Indiana. Passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, on March 4, 2026. Michael lived a life marked by service, faith, and kindness. Growing up on a farm, he began working at a young age and carried that strong work ethic throughout his life. His many jobs included Hammond Valve and Sam’s Club. A proud veteran, he had a deep love for his country and was a dedicated member of VFW Post 717, where he volunteered for many events-especially the fish fries-and was always willing to lend a hand. He was a devoted brother and beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Known for his playful spirit, he was a jokester who loved sharing a laugh and keeping others on their toes. Michael also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and looking for a good bargain.

Michael is survived by his sisters, Rosemary of St. John, Patricia Wirtz of Crown Point, and Mary Keilman of St. John; sisters-in-law, Faye, Charlette, Vivian, and Mary; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Janet, Ed, Tom, and Geri. He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Bertha Keilman; brothers, Harold (Blanche), Ralph, James (Elizabeth), Robert, Thomas, and Alfred; sisters, Virginia Case, Ruth (Wayne) Pointer, and infant Maryann Keilman.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m with a Prayer Service and Military Honors at 3:00 pm at the Elmwood Funeral Chapel, 11300 W. 97th Lane, St. John, IN 46373. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to VFW Post 717-10400 W. 93rd Ave., St. John, IN 46373 or Gibault Children’s Services.  For more information 219-365-3474

 

 

Memorial Contributions:

Donate to Gibault | Support Youth & Family Services

or

VFW Post 717
10400 W 93rd Ave,
St John, IN 46373





 

Visitation Location

St. John
11300 W. 97th Lane
St. John, IN 46373
(219) 365-3474

Map

Visitation Information

Saturday, March 14, 2026 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm

Prayer Service
Saturday, March 14, 2026 - 3:00 pm

Condolences
"Heaven sure gained a beautiful angel. You will be missed Michael but soar high and keep a watchful eye over your friends and family at the VFW! God Bless You! We are thankful for all you have done!"
- Joe and Judy Uzubell
March 6, 2026 7:19 am
"Bob & I are so sorry for your loss. He was such a wonderful man. I felt very connected to him because he worked with my mother at Hammond Valve back in the days. May he rest in peace. He will be greatly missed."
- Gina & Bob Huppenthal
March 7, 2026 9:35 am
"Our friend Michael, was a Vietnam Veteran who proudly served our country, and the St. John VFW Post 717. His time on earth was done, and it was time for God to take him home. We were truly blessed to have known him. -Sam & Sue Zarate "
- Sue & Sam Zarate
March 8, 2026 11:33 am
"We miss you so much Uncle Mike. All the jokes and pranks will always make us laugh. While we hurt now, in the future I hope that the memories of you will only warm our hearts and bring smiles to our faces. Give mom and dad hugs from me, share a beer and an exotic meat dish with them and watch over us all. Love you!"
- Sandy Urbanczyk
March 11, 2026 10:45 am
"Mike was a very good man. In our conversations, he always told me he thank God for every day and everything he had. so many times when we talked, he always expressed to me how much and how grateful he was to myself and so many others who touched his life.At the Harry’s breakfast he walked around the table greeting everyone with a handshake or hug. That was very important to him. He will most definitely be missed. I’m blessed to have had him in my life. RIP my friend. Dave."
- Dave Asche
March 11, 2026 8:17 pm
"Rest in peace brother-in-law. I am thankful for the memories, weekends spent together, cruising, ziplining over 3000 feet of water in Labadee Haiti, family reunions, playing dice with my sweet Alred, Virginia and Ruth back in the day. Michael was quite the prankster, and it didn't take me long to realize when he did the dishes at our house, he needed supervising when putting things away...or it would take me weeks to find things LOL. The first time we stayed over with him and Brenda, I found Andes candies on our pillows, just a small and thoughtful gesture; I guess he wanted us to feel like we were in a 5-star hotel. RIP Michael, say hi to Al for me and until we meet again. With love."
- Mary E. Keilman
March 14, 2026 9:32 am
Candles Lit
"Thank you"
- Nieces and Nephews
March 10, 2026 6:32 pm