Judge Kettler was born and raised in Robinson, Texas. Graduated from Baylor University in 1967 and Baylor Law School in 1970. Worked as a prosecutor in the McLennan County District Attorney's Office from 1971 to 1974. He has been in private practice of law since that time.

He has served as City Attorney for the City of Robinson from 1977 to 1985. Was elected to the Robinson Independent School District Board of Trustees in 1994, and is currently serving as Vice-President of the Board.

He was appointed Judge of the City of Beverly Hills Municipal Court in 1997 and is currently a Director of the Texas Municipal Courts Association and the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center.

Judge Kettler and his wife Janet have four grown children and two grandchildren.