Marine & RV Wholesale Distributor

A Tribute to Howard Lauver by Mike Keller

On August 18, 1975, my father, George Keller, the owner of Keller Marine & RV, asked Howard Lauver to help bring a new Burroughs B700 computer system online. My father had been working toward computerization since 1968, and when he finally invested in a state-of-the-art system, he needed someone who could make it truly work for the business. Howard was that person. He didn't just make the system function—he made it excel.

Howard went on to work at Keller for nearly 35 years. During that time, he completed five additional system installations, each one successful. More importantly, he became a mentor to me. He taught me how to build systems and processes that I continue to rely on today, and for that I am deeply grateful.

Howard lived a life of service. In addition to his work, he served as an EMT. I was always amazed by his ability to shift instantly from writing COBOL code to responding to an emergency call. When the tones went off, Howard would leave immediately, often arriving first at the scene to help those in need. After caring for the injured and completing the required paperwork, he would return to work and continue as if he had never left. His calm focus and commitment were remarkable.

Helping others was central to who Howard was. He gave countless hours to organizations such as DH&L Ambulance, the Port Trevorton Fire Company, the Red Cross, Halls Lutheran Church, and the Union Chapman Regional Sewer Authority. He left very little time for himself, choosing instead to give it to others. He never sought recognition—he simply served.

Howard was firm in his beliefs and deeply committed to doing what was right. He lived by clear standards and expected the same from those around him. His communication was direct and honest, and as a young man in business, I valued that greatly.

Later in his life, I had the privilege of volunteering alongside Howard at the Union Chapman Regional Sewer Authority. He was always looking for ways to help people, often working with Jerry Bilger to resolve difficult and sometimes unpleasant problems in people's homes. He did this work willingly, without complaint, and with genuine care.

Above all, Howard was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved his children and grandchildren deeply and spoke often and proudly of their accomplishments.

On February 23, 2026, Howard went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Scripture teaches us to serve others and to give before we receive, and Howard's life was a living example of that truth. He taught me that true happiness does not come from possessions or accomplishments, but from helping others in need. That is how Howard lived, and that is how he found joy.

I am confident that when Howard stood before the Lord, he heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."