Patricia A. Keller, 73, of Elizabethtown passed from this life on earth on April 14, 2020, to her home in heaven to spend eternity with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Born on June 23, 1946, in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Clair N. and Helen (Todd) Espenshade.
A highlight of her life was serving God as a missionary for fourteen years in Papua New Guinea, with her husband Marlin and children. Thankful for the privilege of raising her children on the mission field, she thrived on planning conferences and guest meals, and was always fulfilled to cook for many people from different ethnic cultures. Pat had a gift of hospitality which she diligently expressed to both missionary colleagues and Papua, New Guinea, national folks.
A 1964 graduate of Elizabethtown High School, her organizational skills were exhibited in her secular jobs which included secretary for a finance company, secretary/bookkeeper for Lebanon Valley Bible Church, and clerk for Hershey Estates. Pat retired from Food Services at Elizabethtown High School in 2011 and attended Calvary Church, Lancaster.
On travel adventures, she and Marlin enjoyed exploring God’s natural creation by visiting many waterfalls, going to flower shows, and taking walks. Pat used her God-given talent in creating silk and fresh flower arrangements, as well as designing inspirational greeting cards. She wrote hundreds of poems, many of which were personalized.
She really enjoyed planning special activities, food, and crafts for her family as they celebrated birthday and holidays. Her grandchildren Kai, Brody, Mallory, and Mattea brought her countless hours of fun and joy and she was thankful for opportunities to hug, love, and nurture their little hearts toward God. Pat’s greatest accomplishment was a legacy she passed on to her family that “Whatsoever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord.”
Surviving are her husband of 54 years, Marlin Keller; daughter Susan, wife of Eugene Hess; son Brian Keller; daughter Jenny, wife of Nathan Hurst; grandchildren Brayden Keller, Tate Keller, Mattea Keller, Mallory Keller, Aubrey Hess, Carrie Hess, Kai Hurst, and Brody Hurst. She was preceded in death by her brother Harold Espenshade.
A private burial will be held in Shenks Cemetery, Elizabethtown, with a memorial service to be held at a future date.
*All obituaries are submitted by family and friends of the deceased.
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