Miriam "Mitzi" Emma Keiser, 93, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 11, 1932, in Manchester, New Hampshire, to Edmund and Emma Kuehnel, Mitzi was raised near Pittsfield, NH, where she graduated from Pittsfield High School in June 1950. After living in Dannemora, New York for a few years, she felt the call to serve her country and enlisted in the United States Air Force on August 16, 1954, in Plattsburgh, NY. She served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged on June 29, 1957, at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. Her military service took her across the globe — from Texas to North Africa — and ultimately brought her a lifetime of memories and lifelong friendships.

While stationed in Hawaii, Mitzi met the love of her life, Gaylan Keiser. The two were married in Honolulu on June 16, 1956. They built a beautiful life together marked by love, laughter, and devotion to their family, until Gaylan's passing in 1995.

Mitzi was an extraordinary woman. She found her greatest joy in being a mother and grandmother. She poured her heart into raising her sons and was endlessly proud of each of them. Her love was boundless, her support unwavering, and her joy in their lives was evident in every story she shared.

She is survived by her sons Kevin Keiser and Ken (Renee) Keiser; her grandchildren Afton (Pat) Artz, Kylie (Trevor) Scott, and Daulton (Mallory) Keiser; and her cherished great-grandchildren: Adylee Artz, Avery Artz, Ellie Artz, Emmy Artz, Liam Scott, Ivy Artz, Malia Scott, and one more (Baby Keiser) on the way. Her presence in their lives was a source of warmth, laughter, and endless encouragement. She delighted in every visit, every letter, every phone call, every hug — and especially in sharing sweet treats and ice cream with them.

Mitzi was preceded in death by her husband Gaylan, her parents, her son Johnny, her sister Esther Milledge, her brother Bob Kuehnel, sisters-in-law Lois Mudder and Myrna Anderson and brother-in-law Rodger Keiser.

A woman of deep and quiet faith, Mitzi was a devoted lifelong Lutheran. Her faith was a steady anchor throughout her life, guiding her with strength, grace, and compassion. She found joy in her church community and lived out her beliefs through kindness, humility, and service to others.

She worked as an administrative clerk and later at the State Bank of Alcester, known by all who worked with her as kind, capable, and full of life. But it was her role in the lives of her family that brought out her brightest light.

Mitzi was truly one of a kind gem — A selfless and spirited woman, spunky, sassy, sweet, and just the right amount of stubborn. She loved deeply, gave generously, and approached life with curiosity and adventure. Her facial expressions were legendary, her laugh unforgettable, and her love unconditional. Whether it was a family road trip, a spontaneous outing, family game night, or simply sitting on the porch sharing stories, Mitzi made every moment special. She was known for her quick wit, vibrant personality, and a heart as big as her smile. Her warmth and unwavering love left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A visitation will be held at Resurrection Lutheran from 8:30am to 9:30 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at 10:00 a.m. A private burial will follow. Her legacy of love, strength, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.