John Keller

ALPENA — Decades may have passed, but the legacy of Alpena High School track star John Keller continues to race ahead, as he will be inducted into the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame on June 7.

Keller, a 1978 Alpena graduate, left an indelible mark on the Wildcats’ track and field program as a standout hurdler, sprinter, and relay team member. Today, more than 45 years later, two of his school records still stand — a testament to his talent, determination, and the foundation laid by dedicated coaches and teammates.

During his senior year, Keller advanced to the MHSAA Class A State Finals in the 120-yard high hurdles and clocked a time of 14.9 seconds — converted from a 14.7 in the 120-yard semi-finals — which remains the school’s accepted record in the 110-meter hurdles.

“I had set a goal for myself to break the school record in the high hurdles,” Keller recalled. “I was fortunate to make it through regionals, and then in the state semi-finals, I broke the record. I ended up placing ninth in the state finals. It was an incredible experience, especially getting to compete against someone like Marcus Allen from Cass Tech.”

Keller’s success extended beyond individual events. He also helped power Alpena’s 4×200-meter relay team to a school record of 1:31.5 alongside Tom Denomme, Phil Nensewitz, and Bob Woron — a mark that still holds today.

“We worked hard on our handoffs, and it paid off,” he said. “We won the Northeast Champions meet, and I’m still in touch with those guys. They were great teammates and are still great friends.”

Reflecting on the impact of his athletic journey, Keller emphasized the life lessons he carried from the track to his successful career as director of Alpena/Montmorency DHHS.

“What stayed with me was setting goals and working hard to attain them,” he said. “I had coaches who believed in me and teammates who pushed me. Those experiences shaped how I led teams in my professional life. I’m proud of the work we did to support families in Northern Michigan.”

Keller credits much of his success to the support system around him: coaches Tom Bennett, Pat Hughes, Jim Watters, and Bob LeFevre, as well as his late parents, Beth and Dutch Keller.

“I’ve heard it said that it only takes one caring adult to impact a young person’s life,” Keller said. “I was blessed to have several. To be recognized as part of Alpena’s sports legacy is humbling. I’m proud to share this honor with my relay teammates and to always call Alpena home.”