John Stanley Keelean, 83, passed away on February 25, 2023, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born on October 22, 1939, in Missaukee County, Michigan and preceded in death by his parents Stanley and Rosalie (Breen) Keelean and sister Elizabeth Deeb. He is survived by wife Sandra Ann (Kinney) Keelean, sons Matthew (Diana Kampert) Keelean, Daniel (Tara) Keelean and grandson Jonathan Emery Keelean. He is survived by brothers George (Meri Lou) Keelean, Joseph (Nancy) Keelan, Michael (Jean) Keelean, Edward (Chris) Keelean and sisters Virginia Keelean and Mary (Keelean) Mehringer and nieces and nephews.
He attended Aquinas College from 1957-1959 and graduated from the College of Architecture and Design, University of Michigan, in 1963. From 1963 to 1967, he served as a United States Naval officer, stationed in Newport, RI, Pensacola, FL, Long Beach, CA and Yokosuka, Japan, serving on the USS Mansfield DD-728 during the Vietnam War. He retired from the United States Naval Reserves as Commander on January 1, 1984.
He began his architectural career in 1967 working briefly in Ann Arbor, MI, then moved to Williams & Works, Grand Rapids, MI, and retired from Owen-Ames-Kimball, Grand Rapids, MI, as Vice President in 2001.
John and Sandra were married on June 29, 1968, in Ludington, MI, took many road trips after retirement, traveling around the United States and Canada, as well several trips and cruises to Europe. He was a member of Cascade Hills Country Club, spending time on the golf course and in the card room with many long-time friends. Most of all, he loved time with Jonathan, Dan, Tara, Matt, Diana and his extended Keelean family.
Visitation is scheduled for May 6, 2023, 11am to 1pm at Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A private interment will take place in Lake City, MI, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to an organization of one’s choice.
One Response
John was a great big brother who had a big impact on me and my family and continually reinforced his commitment to family by being enthusiastically present at nearly all the many KEELEAN get togethers. This is a tough loss.