Frank Keistler

ANNA, Ill. -- Frank Keistler, 86, of Anna died Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007, at Jonesboro Rehab and Healthcare Center in Jonesboro, Ill.

He was born March 22, 1921, in Anna, son of James Franklin and Edna Bridges Keistler. He and Ruth Anne Eddleman were married Feb. 7, 1941, in Jackson.

Keistler was employed by the state of Illinois 23 years. He and his wife owned and operated Whitehouse Coffee Shop in Anna more than 20 years.

He was active in politics in Union County, serving as Republican county chairman 50 years, and served as a national delegate in the 1992 Republican National Convention in Houston.

Keistler was a member of First Baptist Church, Townsend F. Dodd American Legion Post, and life member of Carroll P. Foster VFW Post 3455.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of the occupation forces in Japan.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Carole Baker of Anna, Barbara Grace of Upland, Calif.; a son, James Keistler II of Anna; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a sister and two grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at Lutz and Rendleman Funeral Home in Anna.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Tony Foeller officiating. Burial will be in Anna City Cemetery with military honors conducted by VFW Post 3455.