NORMAN LEROY "BUD" KEENE

Norman Leroy 'Bud' Keene, age 83, passed away February 26, 2011, surrounded by his family and friends.

Bud was born June 30, 1927, in Pasco, Washington.

He lived in Pasco his entire life and graduated from Pasco High School in 1944, then shortly thereafter joined the NAVY.

Bud went on to further his education at Eastern Washington University in 1954, where he graduated and earned his Bachelor's degree in Political Science.

While attending Eastern Washington University, Bud met and married Mickey Vail and had three children.

Bud later went on to marry Melba Alexander, mother of three children. Between them, they had a daughter.

His lifelong occupation was working in the Title Insurance industry, which included Franklin Benton Title Co., Transamerica Title and then Benton Franklin Title Co., where he retired on his birthday in 1995.

Bud was an avid golfer, gardener, sports enthusiast, but most of all spending time with his family was his greatest love.

After his retirement, he was active as a member of the City of Pasco Code Enforcement Board.

He was a member of the Franklin County Historical Society.

A member of Alpha Phi Omega at Eastern.

Bud was preceded in death by wife of 45 years Melba Ruth Keene, parents Jack and Luella Keene, Jeff and Bessie Morrow, son Don Alexander, and daughter Sharon Keene.

Bud is survived by brother George Keene of Pasco, sister Dolly Downs of Vancouver, WA; children, Snap and Rita Keene of George, Shelley and Jerry Larson of Pasco, Brent (BJ) and Roxie Alexander of Pasco, Janet and Brent McDonald of Rosamond, CA, Kim and Terry Elzie of Pasco and daughter-in-law Tari Alexander of Renton, WA. He also leaves behind 35 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, to whom he was known as 'Papa' and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bud is now rejoined with the love of his life, Melba (Mamo). They loved and cared for one another, and will continue to do so for eternity.

Bud will be remembered for his profound generosity and loving heart.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tri-City Chaplaincy/ Hospice at 2108 W. Entiat Ave Kennewick, WA 99336.

Viewing will be Friday, March 4, 2011, at Mueller's Greenlee Funeral Home, 1608 W. Court St. Pasco, WA, between 5:00pm-8:00pm.

The graveside service will be held Saturday at City View Cemetery on Oregon Ave. in Pasco, WA, Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 11:30 am.

A service will be held at Mueller's Greenlee Funeral Home, 1608 W. Court St. Pasco, WA, Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 1:00 pm.

Following the service, there will be a reception at the Pasco Eagles Lodge, 2829 W. Sylvester Pasco, WA.