REST IN PEACE ROGER KELLER

MR is saddened to report the passing of Roger Keller, a beloved menswear industry exec, entrepreneur, talented clarinet player and friend to so many in the menswear and music fields. He started his career selling suits at his family’s clothing store and was later affiliated with Euro Fashions and Dayang Alliance LLC (John Varvatos tailored clothing). Roger was also a highly praised musician and quintessential gentleman, always reaching out to help anyone in need of advice and/or friendship. Married to Milica Simic Keller since 2019, Millie was the love of Roger’s life who, say friends and family, brought him tremendous joy over the past six years.

Tragically, Roger fought a valiant battle with brain cancer over the past six months. All of us at MR send love and condolences to Roger’s beloved family, especially his wife and daughter Shayna. What follows: a few of the many facebook comments from menswear industry friends.

Says Sal Giardina from Trinity, “Roger was the only one in the menswear industry who could hold technical conversations about fabrics and garment construction with expert knowledge.” Agrees Gary Dante from Suit Mart, “Roger was one of the good guys in our industry and absolutely a true clothing maven.”

From Ron Cornell, “Roger was quite a guy. When I was first switching from the tennis business to the neckwear business, Roger was very kind to me. He gave me helpful suggestions on how to better sell my products and an education into the clothing business. RIP Roger; you will be missed!”

From Stewart Golden, “I go back with Roger and his wonderful family for more than 50 years. He was an amazing person and a great friend who I will dearly miss.” Says Phil Elkus, “Roger was a strong merchant, a talented designer and importer, and above all else a good friend. May his memory be a blessing.” From Michelle Firestone Brown, former associate publisher at MR, “Roger was one of the sweetest menswear clients I ever had.” And from Tom Malvino, “Roger was a true friend. We had many great experiences together, mostly at clothing shows over the years. His music acumen was incredible, his product knowledge and passion for the industry unmatched.”

Don Martin is deeply saddened by Roger’s passing. “We always kept in touch. I was so grateful that he and Millie flew into NYC for the weekend of my book launch three years ago. I must say that ever since he met Millie, it was the happiest time of his life. Rest well my good friend.” Sums up Michael Wheelan, “So many of us from the industry have known Roger our entire careers. He was a true gentleman with much integrity and a very kind heart.” Adds Charles Krieger, “No one loved tailored clothing more than Roger.” And from Harold Master, “You couldn’t find a nicer, more knowledgeable guy in the clothing business. He was always there for me, and I will miss him dearly.”

May Roger’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him and may his kindness and generous spirit be an inspiration to all of us.