Jack Keller
- by Oliver Gaywood
July 23rd, 2007
“Gentleman” Jack Keller was a well-liked man with a friendly attitude both at and away from the poker table who is no longer with us.
Born during the Second World War, Keller would himself join the United States Air Force later in life before being drawn to the world of poker.
After living in Philadelphia as a youngster he later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, to be at the centre of the gambling industry. In his later years he would move to Robinsonville, Mississippi.
He first tasted success in the 1984 World Series of Poker tournament when he won two bracelets – one for Limit 7 Card Stud and the other in the World Championship No Limit Hold ‘em.
In 1993 he won his third, and final, bracelet playing Limit Omaha. Soon afterwards he was named as a new inductee into the Poker Hall of Fame. With 36 cash finishes over his career, including final table appearances at the main WSOP event in 1987 and 1992, Keller amassed over $2,000,000 from tournament play. Although not a great deal by modern standards, it was a significant amount to someone from Keller’s era.
Sadly, Keller passed away in December 2003 whilst in Tunica, Mississippi, leaving behind his legacy and his three children – including fellow poker professional Kathy Kolberg.
Kathy has cashed more than 20 times in major tournaments and regularly plays online. She can be found at PokerPages under the username BigSkky.
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