Ernst (Ernie) Keller

Biography

Born in Luzk, Poland on November 12, 1935, Keller came to Canada in 1954 to begin his learned trade of bricklaying. In 1959 he formed a well-respected masonry company, which later grew into the general contracting company of Ernie Keller Contractors. He is past-president of the Winnipeg Construction Association, and past-chairman and founder of the Labour Relations Association of Manitoba, where he served as National Chairman for two years. Keller represented the Manitoba Construction Industry in Ottawa, and Internationally in Geneva. He was appointed in 1994 by the three levels of government as chairperson of The Forks North Portage Partnership where he served until 2000.

In 1989 Keller was awarded the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, Manitoba's highest honour, in recognition of his dedicated service to the community for his significant contribution to cultural education in Manitoba. He also received a Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal.

For several years, Keller was a member of Khartum Temple Shriners, including time as President of the Motor Patrol. He was devoted to St. Peter's Church and its community, serving on the church council, where he was known for his big heart, generosity, and active involvement in the church's development and construction.

Keller passed away October 9, 2010, at 74.