Vernon Keilholtz

Vernon Keilholtz, 90 years young, passed away peacefully, April 28, 2013. He was the beloved husband of Blanche (Bea) Long Keilholtz, his wife of 68 years.

Born March 13, 1923 in Rocky Ridge, MD, he was the son of Ernest F. and Edith C. Valentine Keilholtz. Vernon and Blanche shared the same birthday.

He was a graduate of Emmitsburg High School. After one year at the University of Maryland, Vernon joined the Air Force where he became a captain and was a pilot in World War 11. He was the co-pilot of a B-17 that flew 35 missions out of Thorpe Abbotts, England. On Nov. 13, 1944, he married Bea and they were stationed at various bases in the U.S. He then served in the Occupation in Japan.

After the war, Vernon helped to establish the VFW in Emmitsburg, MD. where he became it's second commander. Following in his father's footsteps, he became a livestock dealer for most of his career. In 1981, he began working for the National Fire Academy in the transportation department.

Vernon was a lifelong member of Mt. Tabor Church. He had been very active on the council and on the park board. For many years, Vernon was a Sunday school teacher. He was a member of the Tyrian Masonic Lodge for more than fifty years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Some of his favorite activities were gardening, playing cards and backgammon, and doing things for other people.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Timothy Keilholtz and wife Ellen of Hagerstown; and their children, Kevin (his wife Jazmine and newborn daughter Bay Janet), Matthew , and Kurt. Vernon is also survived by his daughter Carolynn and her husband Terry Maddox of Thurmont, and their children, David, Daniel, Jason, and great- grandchildren Brooke and Blaine. Vernon was also fortunate to have many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Vernon was one of eight children. Surviving him is his sister Hazel Stonesifer and husband Charles, and sister-in-law Frances Baker Keilholtz. He was predeceased by sisters Dorothy Knipple, Novella Dinterman, and Anna Law and brothers Merle, Raymond, and Ralph Keilholtz.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be sent to Cemetery Fund, Mt. Tabor Church, 10043 Long's Mill Rd., Rocky Ridge, MD 21788

If you knew Vernon and would like to see him remembered
 in the next History of Emmitsburg, Please send us any stories or
 anecdotes about him to us at: history@emmitsburg.net