James Keene

James Keene, 90 of La Porte, Indiana passed away Friday, June 28, 2019.  Jim was born on May 27, 1929 in Michigan City to Dallas and Hazel (Waak) Keene.  On March 1, 1952, he married Jeanene Boniface at the former 1st Baptist church in an evening candle-light service.

Jeanene Keene survives with a daughter, Joy (John) Moore of Dayton, Ohio; sons, Jeffrey (Barbara) Keene of La Porte, Jon (Judy) Keene of Minnesota; grandchildren, Wendy Lynne (Scott) Armstrong, Jarek Brandon Moore, Zachary Ryan Moore, Brandon (Melanie) Keene, Kristin Rashanne (Dexter) Watkins, Andrew Logan Keene, Isaac Thomas Keene, Carson James Keene, Tamara (Robert) Mehus; great grandchildren, Alexander James Armstrong, Deacon James Keene, Paisley Kate Keene, Austin Scott, Cameron West, Xander Elias Watkins, Xiva Arialynn Watkins, Atreyu James Watkins, Addison Clark, Raymond Gabriel, Josephine Vance, Jon Eben and Benjamin Carter. He is also survived by his fur babies, Lollie and Violet. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Herbert E. Keene.

Jim had an amazing life. He retired from the United States Navy after 33 years having served on the USS Curtis where he received the National Defense and Good Conduct medals. He played semi-professional football during his Navy career. After his service in the Navy Jim was involved with Indian Guides, was a Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop #321 receiving the Order of the Arrow. He coached Little League and was a certified referee in Junior high and elementary schools for football and basketball. Jim retired from his second career from the United States Postal Service after 37 years as a supervisor in mails and delivery. 

Jim was a member of the Jaycees, Kiwanis, the American Legion Post 83, and was a ten-gallon blood donor. He was a former member of First Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon and board member and played softball for the church team. He is a current member of Bethany Lutheran Church in La Porte.

Jim enjoyed attending and helping at his grandchildren’s sporting events. He was a loving kind soul and found joy in making others happy. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He left his family with a legacy of love and kindness. Jim was a hero to his family and will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Friday, July 5, 2019 followed by a service at 12 noon at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. Pastor Dennis Meyer will officiate. Burial will follow in Patton Cemetery, La Porte.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethany Memorial Fund, 102 G. Street, La Porte, Indiana 46350 or Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383.

Please share prayers, condolences, and memories with the family at Essling Funeral Home.com.

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