Bears Mourn the Loss of Ralph Keller

03/08/2018 - The Hershey Bears are saddened to learn of the passing of Ralph Keller, a former defender, captain, Calder Cup champion, and Hall of Fame member. Keller was 82.

"Today is a sad day for the Hershey Bears organization with the passing of Ralph Keller," said Vice President of Hockey Operations, Bryan Helmer. "Ralph was one of the all-time greats to wear the Chocolate and White. He was part of our family, and he will be dearly missed. The entire organization offers our condolences to Ralph's family and friends at this difficult time."

Keller played for the Bears from 1963-74 and ranks first in club history for points by a defenseman (408) and games played by a defenseman (737). The native of Wilkie, Saskatchewan held the AHL record for goals scored by a defenseman (111) at the time of his retirement. Keller was named a first-team AHL All-Star in 1968-69 and captained the 1973-74 Calder Cup championship team.

Keller's number three is retired by the Bears. He was inducted into the Hershey Bears Hockey Club Hall of Fame in 2012 as a member of the inaugural class, and he was inducted in the AHL Hall of Fame in 2016.

The Bears will hold a moment of recognition for Keller prior to puck drop on Sunday, Mar. 11 as the club hosts the Grand Rapids Griffins at Giant Center at 5 p.m.

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