Avis Muriel Keene

KEENE, Avis Muriel (Robinson), 1926-201 Kalamazoo After a brief period of illness, and in the presence of family, Avis Keene passed away on March 26, 2012. She was born fourth of seven children to Alta B. and Leo C. Robinson on April 10, 1926, in Kalamazoo. She often spoke of how much fun her family had in spite of the hardships of the Great Depression. She attended Kalamazoo Central High School (class of 1944,) where she met Richard Keene. They became engaged prior to his shipping out for active duty in World War II, and married in 1946 after his safe return. Avis was a devoted wife and mother; their first son Ron was born in 1948, second son Gary in 1956, and their much anticipated daughter Debra in 1958. The family remained in Kalamazoo, where Dick was employed at Upjohn throughout his career. Avis led the family as active members and leaders at First United Methodist Church, where they developed a life-long network of close friendships. She was active serving at the church's food pantry, and in the community as both a cub scout and girl scout leader. Avis held a life-long interest in family history: she volunteered at the Kalamazoo Courthouse, helping people to find documents for their own families genealogy, and assisted people from around the country research their connections in Kalamazoo. She ultimately served as president of the Kalamazoo County Genealogical Society. With Dick, Avis was active across the years, including sailing and hiking. They enjoyed traveling extensively, often on their own, especially in the British Isles, and to visit family and friends around the country. Avis was a model of hospitality, and enjoyed entertaining friends and especially family. She was active in caring for friends and family during their illnesses, and was a 35 year cancer survivor before being recently diagnosed again. She is preceded in death by her parents, most of her siblings and her son Ron: she is survived by her sister Eileen and brother Chet, her husband Richard, and her children Gary and Debra and many nieces and nephews. A service of remembrance will be held at First United Methodist Church at 11am, Tuesday April 3, 2012, followed by a light reception. Gifts to First U.M.C. and especially the food pantry are welcome; also to the Western Michigan University Archives, and the Kalamazoo Public Library (Local History Room.) Interment to follow later at Custer National Cemetery. Share a memory or sign the guest book at www.avinkcremation.com Arrangements by Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society Schoolcraft