Milton Kellner

Marvin Milton Kellner, Jr., affectionately known as "Grump," passed away on May 31, 2026.  Born on January 6, 1949, in Uvalde, Texas to Marvin and Edna Kellner, Milton lived a life marked by hard work, honesty, devotion to family and a love of simple joys.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Lampasas Community Church on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11 am.

He graduated from Fort Stockton High School in 1967 and went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education in 1971 and a Master of Agricultural Education in 1973.  While at Texas A&M, he served as president of the Phi Eta Sigma honor fraternity.

Milton met the love of his life, Claudia, in 1968 during a stopover in San Marcos, Texas, while on his way back to College Station.  They were married on May 22, 1971, at Fort Stockton United Methodist Church and shared a loving marriage that lasted more than five decades.

In 1973, Milton and Claudia moved to Eastland, Texas, where he served as county extension agent until 1975.  Later that year, they moved to Lampasas, Texas, where Milton again served as county extension agent before opening a tractor and farm implement dealership.  For the last 41 years, he operated a custom farming and mechanics business, earning a reputation for skill, determination, and dependability.

Milton was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  He and Claudia raised four children, were blessed with 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as "Grump," a name he wore proudly.  Though tough and unafraid to speak his mind, he loved his family fiercely and would do anything for the people he cared about.

He taught those around him the value of hard work, keeping your word, and showing up when it matters.  He also taught his family how to laugh, enjoy life, and appreciate the simple things.  His stories, his humor, and his steady presence will be deeply missed.

Milton's family takes comfort in the memories he leaves behind - a life well lived, rooted in love, integrity and perseverance.  His lessons and his legacy will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

He is survived by his mother, Edna Kellner; his wife, Claudia Kellner; his four children, Shelley Kellner Smith (Greg), Shannon Kellner (Tresa), Charlie Kellner (Rachel), and Wesley Kellner (Carolann); his brother, Bill Kellner (Lanell); his sister, Doris Howdeshell; his brother, Mike Kellner (Jenny); 14 grandchildren; one great-grandchild and many other loving family members and friends, and though not listed here, rest assured, he can name every single one and weave a tale or two about each.

Milton was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Kellner; and his brother-in-law, John Howdeshell along with his father-in-law, Claude Hayman; his mother-in-law, Kathlyn (Kittie) Hayman and his brothers-in-law, Fred (Buddy) Hayman and William (Bill) Hayman.

Our hearts are broken, but gratitude remains for the example he set and the life he lived.  He will be cherished always and missed every day.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lampasas County Youth Livestock Association.