Vernie L. Keller was born February 22, 1925 in rural Clay County, South Dakota to parents August and Emma (Carlson) Peterson. She died October 4, 2014 at Bethesda Nursing Home in Beresford, SD at the age of 89 years, seven months and 12 days. Vernie was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. She attended Newdale Country School. She married Oliver Keller on October 16, 1948. Vernie worked as a cook for several restaurants in Beresford. After retiring, she continued to reside here. She moved to Bethesda in January of 2014 and lived there until her death. Vernie enjoyed growing flowers, feeding birds and squirrels, and having coffee with her many friends and neighbors. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two brothers and three sisters. Among those who survive are her five children, Mary (Harvey) Northrup, Auburndale, FL, Joyce (Jerry) Hansen, Beresford, Vicki Salberg, Centerville, Holly (Dan) Hedeen, Beresford, and Gary Keller, Coon Rapids, MN; seven grandchildren, Aaron, Wendy, Adam, Kayla, Haley, Lauren and Kindra; 12 great-grandchildren, two great- great-grandsons, her brother Lloyd Peterson, Beresford; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, October 9, 2014 at Wass Funeral Home in Beresford with burial to follow at the Beresford Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5PM to 7PM at Wass Funeral Home.