Bertha R. (Granny) Keister age 88 of Rock City passed away at home on Tuesday Aug 3, 2021 surrounded by her loving family.  She was born Oct 19, 1932 the daughter of Otto and Edith (Toelke) Grunder.  She married Willard G. (Bill) Keister on January 21, 1956.  They enjoyed many wonderful years together before his passing on July 31, 1982.

Granny babysat for several years, worked a short time at Structo, tended bar at Rock City Tap for over 30 years and was an avid Cubs fan for most of her life.  She was able to attend a 2016 playoff game with her sister Marie and great nephew Eric).  A favorite pastime was bowling and playing cards when she wasn't spending time with her extended family and friends who meant the world to her. She was also known by the community and surrounding communities for her award-winning pies which were often requested for special occasions throughout the years!

She is survived by her three children: Dennis (Michelle) Keister of Cedarville, Tammy (Boo) Keister-Long of Dakota and Laurie (Kenneth) Lerwick of Front Royal VA.  Eleven grandchildren Toby (Brian), JR, Will (Vanessa), Devon (Jessica), Tom, Dillon (Mikaela) and Haakon.  Twelve great-grandchildren Madelynn, Alexa, Ella, Harlee, Jake, Luke, Otto, Kaitlyn, Kael, Kiya, Lydia and Declan. Granny is also survived by siblings Edith Rosenstiel, Clara Gill, Ben (Carol) Grunder, Helen (Richard) Schneeberger, Dorothy Kreger, Charles (Deborah) Grunder, sister-in law Marilyn Keister, brother- in-law Eugene (Karen) Keister and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Otto Jr, Sisters Julia (age 2), Judith Strong and Marie Johnson.  Brother-in-laws Mike Rosenstiel, Robert Gill, Claude Kreger, Elwood Strong and Elmer Johnson.  In addition, she was preceded by in laws Harold (MaryJane) Reeter, Harold (Marge) Bordner, Ed (Cynthia) Webster, Bob Keister, and Phyllis Keister.

Services will be Saturday August 7, 2021 at the Rock City Fire Station.  Visitation will begin at 11 with the service at 1PM.  Her final resting place will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Freeport, IL next to Willard. The Daughenbaugh Funeral Home of Dakota is assisting the family. A memorial has been established in her name for FHN Hospice and the Rock City Fire Department. Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermotray.com.