Lieutenant Colonel Richard Leo Keene

Lt. Col. Richard Leo Keene (ret.) 1925-2012 Kalamazoo Following a time in hospice care and six weeks after the passing of his beloved wife Avis, Richard "Dick" Keene died Saturday, May 12. He was the son of Leo and Bernice Keene of Kalamazoo, born Oct.20th, 1925. He attended Kalamazoo Central High School, where he first met Avis Robinson. He graduated in January 1944, and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in Patton's 3rd Army, 9th Division, was part of the "Iron Men of Metz," through the end of the war in Europe. Only after returning home safely did he propose to Avis: they were married June 23rd, 1946. Richard had deep respect for those in military service, especially the infantry, where he served. His natural leadership qualities earned him three field promotions in rapid succession. After starting a family in 1948, he re-enlisted to serve in Korea as an officer from 1950-52. Following active service, he joined the Army Reserves, from which he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1978. After marrying Avis, Dick went to work for the Upjohn Company, where he continued until retirement in 1986; although he had just two years at Western Michigan University, his successor needed two PhDs for what Dick accomplished. Early in their family life, Dick and Avis were touched by tragedy when their older son Ronald died in a teenage driving accident. This led to Dick's active role in the ministry of First United Methodist Church, where he served on many committees, was a loyal member of the Dawn Patrol discussion group, and gave leadership to the church to becoming a Reconciling Congregation. Richard was always active, including paddleball, tennis, sailing, swimming, and especially hiking and golf in his retirement. He was a fifteen year volunteer at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo. Avis and Dick enjoyed traveling extensively, often on their own, especially in the British Isles and Europe, and to visit family and friends around the country. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife and son Ronald: he is survived by his brother James (Meri) and children Gary (Karen Kitchel), and Debra (Robin Clegg), and many nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and nephews. Following a private committal of joint cremains at Custer National Cemetery, a service of remembrance will be held at First United Methodist Church at 1:30pm, Saturday June 23th, followed by a 4pm reception at the Beacon Club. Gifts may be directed to First U.M.C. The family offers thanks to the entire staff at Rose Arbor Hospice, especially Jeff, both Jane's Marilyn and Aretha for their care, compassion and support of Richard and his family in these last weeks. Words are not enough to express our gratitude. Share a memory or sign the guest book at www.avinkcremation.com