Merrill “Sam” S. Keiser, Jr.

Merrill “Sam” S. Keiser, Jr, 79, of Fremont, OH passed away on October 26, 2023 at Admial’s Pointe in Huron, OH.  He was born on May 14, 1944 in Long Beach, CA the son of Merril S. and Helen J. (Kindig) Keiser.  Sam was a 1963 graduate of Fremont Ross High School.  He received his bachelor’s degree in Watershed Management from Colorado State University and then went on to receive his master’s in Davinity from Colorado State University.  Prior to college, Sam enlisted in the Army where he served from 1971 to 1974.  During his time in the service he was awarded the good conduct medal, national defense service medal, one overseas service bar, Vietnam campaign medal with 60 device, Vietnam service medal with 2 bronze service stars, one service stripe and the marksman badge with M-16 rifle bar.

Sam married Pauline “Polly” (Bullock) Cole on January 15, 2012 and she passed away on November 10, 2020.  Sam was an owner operator truck driver for many years.  He was also a pastor at First Baptist Church of Bettsville until he retired.  Sam enjoyed the outdoors, agriculture and was a Cleveland Indians fan. 

Sam is survived by his siblings, Philip Keiser, Bellevue; sister, Sarah (Mark) Aspden, Fremont and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Pauline “Polly” Keiser.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 425 E Sate St, Fremont, OH.

Funeral services will take place on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery with military honor’s provided.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.whhfh.com.