Final Salute

Rollin Charles “Chuck” Kehler, 82, of Painesville, Ohio, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on August 5, 2026, at home after a courageous battle with COPD. Though diagnosed over a decade ago, his strength, unwavering faith, and optimistic spirit carried him far beyond the years many expected. In his final days, Chuck was at peace and ready to go home.

Born on July 27, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised in Camden, New Jersey, Chuck lived a life defined not by recognition or possessions, but by faith, humility, hard work, and love for his family. He was the kind of man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures – a morning cup of coffee, warm slippers, family vacations to Hilton Head, time with his friends, and simply being surrounded by those he loved.

Through a mutual friend, Chuck met the love of his life, Sandy, and together they built a beautiful life in Ohio. They shared 52 years of marriage built on love, faith, and devotion. When they married, Chuck became the father of Karen and Cyndi, adopting them as his own. He was a steady source of encouragement, support, and unconditional love throughout their lives.

Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy Seabees, a chapter of his life that remained one of his greatest sources of pride. He often spoke fondly of his time with the Seabees and carried that pride throughout his life. He especially enjoyed representing the Navy Seabees during a Veterans Day program at his grandchildren’s elementary school, where he shared his experiences with students and honored those who served our country. The Seabees’ motto, “Can Do,” reflected the quiet determination with which Chuck lived his own life.

Chuck built a career as a licensed Stationary Engineer at AMAX Specialty Metals, where he earned a reputation for dependability. He never missed a day of work and was never late, no matter the weather.

A longtime member of Advent Lutheran Church in Mentor, Chuck faithfully served as a Council member involved with Property and Maintenance, and played the drums on the worship team. Although he never learned to read music, he possessed an extraordinary gift for playing entirely by ear. His love for God shaped every part of his life, and he quietly served wherever he was needed.

Chuck’s greatest joy was his family. He was an exceptionally devoted father to his girls and grandfather to David, Rose, and Olivia, always ready to play a game, attend an activity, or simply spend time together.

Chuck loved all animals and never met an animal that didn’t love him. He spent countless hours playing with and loving Sheba, Buffy, Zeke, Sophie and Mylo. Whiskers the cat, only had eyes for him.

Those who knew Chuck will remember his remarkable humility. He never sought attention, rarely asked for anything for himself, and always put others first. He had a wonderful sense of humor, especially when the joke was on him. Whether laughing about one of his less-than-perfect home projects or sharing one of his many stories, he made others feel comfortable simply by being himself. He lived a quiet life, never seeking recognition, believing that loving God, loving his family, and serving others was more than enough.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his daughters, Karen (Ron) and Cyndi; his cherished grandchildren, David, Rose, and Olivia; his sister, Terri Kehler and sister-in-law, Judy Jenkins (Ralph), and their families; his many nieces and nephews along with many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rollin and Bertha Kehler.

Chuck’s family finds great comfort in knowing he is now resting with God and deeply breathing heavenly air. The humble servant who loved God, loved his family, and quietly loved others has entered into glory, where he is finally home and at peace.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. – 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Advent Lutheran Church, 7985 Munson Rd., Mentor, Ohio 44060.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the church, immediately followed by a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. https://www.stjude.org/give.html

Arrangements entrusted to Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, Ohio 44060.

Offer condolences at www.brunners.com.

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