Obituaries

Joseph R. Keen, Jr., 76

June 22, 2023

Joseph R. Keen, Jr., 76, of Lititz, formerly of Lancaster, passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, Thursday, June 22, 2023. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of Nancy P. (Welk) Keen and the late Joseph R. Keen, Sr. In 1971, Joe married the love of his life, Cathy E. (Turner) Keen, with whom he recently celebrated 52 years of marriage.

A 1964 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, returning to school later in life, he earned his bachelor’s degree at Millersville University in 1992. Joe worked as a Quality Engineer for Kerr Group, Inc. for 45 years and then at Southco, Inc. for 7 years.

Joe enjoyed spending his time woodworking and needle work. His greatest love was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Cathy, and mother, Nancy, Joe is survived by three children: Joseph E. Keen, husband of Emily, of Fort Collins, CO, Matthew Keen, husband of Sarah, of Queensbury, NY, and Erin Keen, of Lititz; 3 grandchildren: Willow, Lily, and Connor Keen; and 2 siblings: Stephen Keen, husband of Sandy, of Lancaster, and Paula Funk, wife of Lloyd, of Washington Boro. He was preceded in death by his sister, Joanne.

According to Joe’s wishes, services will be private. He will be laid to rest at St. Joseph’s New Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association.

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Condolences to the Family

November 12, 2023

Cathy I’m so sorry to hear about Joe. Darrell had lunch with Terry onVeterans day and told him about your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.         Jane Geiter

July 29, 2023

I was shocked by the news of Joe’s passing. I used to work with Joe at Southco in the Quality Department. He was so knowledgeable and at the same time, so genuinely nice! He beamed with joy every time he talked about family, especially grandchildren. He had quite a sense of humor too. My sincere condolences to his wife and family. Joe, rest in peace! Sincerely, Celia Berry (Supplier Quality Engineer)

June 29, 2023

Joe Keen was the kindest, interested and interesting, upbeat man who we have had the pleasure to know!  Our sincerest condolences to Cathy, his mother and his entire family!  The world has lost a beautful, wonderful and warm human being!  
Pat & Joe Weaver

June 26, 2023

To the Keen family: I am so very sorry to hear of this loss. Joe was a great guy, and a wonderful co-worker here at Southco. He loved his family deeply and often spoke of you all. May your memories help ease your pain.  My deepest sympathy. Ann

June 25, 2023

So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing. He was a very special, kind man.  Shirley Holby Falk

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