Rev. Harold F.G. Keekley, 84, of Nekoosa, WI, entered into eternal life peacefully Thursday, June 9, 2011, surrounded by his family. He was born July 14, 1926 in Wauwatosa, WI to Harold and Dorothy Zander Keekley (Kuechle). He graduated from Concordia College, Milwaukee,
class of 1945, and Concordia Theological Seminary, St. Louis, MO, class of 1950.
Throughout his ministry, he served at various Lutheran churches including Lubbock, TX, Alva, OK, Norris, SD, Gordon, NE, and Ft. Worth, TX. He served at Layton Park Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, WI, from 1971-1993. Following his retirement, he served as a vacancy pastor in Central Wisconsin for congregations in Hewitt, Marshfield, Pittsville, Wild Rose, Kelner, and Wisconsin Rapids.
Harold enjoyed a lifetime of travel and adventure with a passion for the Western United States, railroad photography, nature, classic cars, and thoughtful discussion of current events. He authored two books featuring his outstanding photography of Union Pacific freight locomotives. Harold also had a special place in his heart for his cherished pets.
Harold is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Kathryn; children Kathryn Henkin (Jeffrey), Mary Steinke (William), Carolyn Bernot (John), Barbara Swetman (Rick), Thomas Keekley (Lori), step-daughter Sarah Syverson (James) and 12 loving grandchildren. He was preceded in death by brother Jon Keekley, step-son William Plies, and granddaughter Kristy Kay.
A private memorial service was held on Saturday, June 11. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Riverview UW Cancer Center, Wisconsin Rapids, WI or House of the Dove Hospice Care, Marshfield, WI. Please include Harold’s name with any donations and you will receive an acknowledgment.
Kaye and family, I was so very sorry to hear about Pastor. I have many memories of the days of Layton Park and the opportunities he provided me to serve. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.