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Bob Keeshan Obituary
Keeshan died of a long illness, his family said in a statement.
Keeshan's "Captain Kangaroo" debuted on CBS television in 1955 and ran for 30 years before moving to public television for six more. The program was wildly popular among children and won six Emmy Awards, three Gabriels and three Peabody Awards.
The format was simple: Each day, Captain Kangaroo, with his sugar-bowl haircut and uniform coat, would wander through his Treasure House, chatting with his good friend Mr. Green Jeans, played by Hugh "Lumpy" Brannum.
He would visit with puppet animals, like Bunny Rabbit, who was scolded for eating too many carrots, and Mr. Moose, who loved to tell knock-knock jokes.
But the show revolved about the grandfatherly Captain Kangaroo, whose name was inspired by the kangaroo pouch-like pockets of the coat Keeshan wore.
"I was impressed with the potential positive relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, so I chose an elderly character," Keeshan said.
Copyright © 2004 The Associated Press
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Philip Stromer
February 11, 2022
Captain Kangaroo was “must see” TV for me as a child in the 1960s. I have the fondest memories of being mesmerised in front of the TV, watching him and Mr. Green Jeans do their thing each day. My review probably sounds the same as everyone else’s, I’m sure others share the same fond memories. Rest in peace Mr. Keeshan, you will always be Captain Kangaroo to me.
Trevor Smith
July 28, 2021
Never forgotten / Andrea and Hayley Smith and their dad Trevor
Valenda Newell
December 30, 2016
EVERYBODY IN AMERICA LOVES AND REMEMBERS "CAPTAIN KANGAROO". THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES....RIH
Allison Dupont
March 8, 2016
Amazing actor. I cherished every show of "Captain Kangaroo" as a young child. Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
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December 26, 2015
My heartfelt codolences go to the entire Keeshan family. I was one of the privileged who was entertained by not only Clarabell but by many years of his educational program Captain Kangaroo.
He will be missed by millions of his fans, but know that deep down he is fondly looking down remembering us.
God bless you and keep you, my friend.
Scott Perry
Patricia Evans
October 3, 2015
I will always remember him. I watched him every day. I would play sick to stay home from school to watch him. If his show were to come back on I would watch it again.
Harry Simpson
January 23, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
July 4, 2014
I loved you then and love you still. Thank you for some lovely childhood moments.
Diane Perrin
March 14, 2014
As I child I absolutely loved " captain kangaroo", I watched it everyday! Bob Keeshan portrayed him excellently. Mr . Green jeans, bunny rabbit and mr. Moose were great to, very good entertainment!
Nazarene Mckinney
March 22, 2013
Captian Kangaroo will in the hearts of kids forever.
Richard Owen
March 3, 2013
Rest In Peace, Captain. See You On The Other Side Some Beautiful Day.
February 12, 2013
I hear your song in my head every day when I wake up! Your spirit will always be with me and the many who loved you.
Lisa Weiner
February 11, 2013
To Bob Keeshan,
You did a great job playing Captain Kangaroo. My prayers are with your family. Lisa Weiner
Mary Kanada
July 18, 2012
With our deepest condolences.
John 11: 1-44
Michelle Stretar
May 2, 2011
I'm sorry for the loss of "Captain Kangaroo" I loved watching that show as I grew. My condolences to the family. I'm sure his spirit will always be with you.
Julie Hill
December 22, 2010
It's not Christmas until I hear "The Littlest Snowman with the Red Candy Heart". Over 40 years later and it still makes me cry. Thanks for some wonderful memories.
Cindy
October 18, 2010
You made my childhood amazing. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. I still smile when I think of the times my sister and I watched Captain Kangaroo!!! See you later!!
Janet Pfeffer Petersen
October 7, 2010
In my late 20's, I was a sales rep and had a choice of children's toys for an award. I chose Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit puppets for my son. What fun to relive the 60's. Thanks for the memories Captain! Are there ping pong balls in heaven(?)
August 21, 2010
Captain Kangaroo was a big part of my life and though my kids have not seen this show I enjoyed it when I was younger. I was on Lucy's Toy Shop when I was in kindergarden. with my younger brother.We had a blast then.
Debbie Artis ( Lane)
Katherine Runyan
August 20, 2010
I was born in 1956 and Captain Kangaroo was a part of my daily life growing up. I had no idea the man playing the "older" Captain was really about my parents' age. I was so pleased when I became a mother that my own daughter could still enjoy the simple goodness of Captain Kangaroo, Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit. God's Speed. K. Runyan
August 20, 2010 Talladega,
Alabama
Pam Kirby
April 9, 2010
Even though it has been several years since the passing of Bob Keeshan, I wanted to share a family memory of this beloved man.
I attended the same schools as his children in Babylon. My younger sister and his youngest daughter Maeve were in elementary school orchestra together--I believe they were in 3rd grade. The sounds emanating from beginning string players can be difficult to bear even for the most loving parents. My mother started giggling uncontrollably under her breath and my grandmother "sent her to the lobby" to compose herself. Who does my mother encounter outside the auditorium door, but Bob Keeshan, who had also lost his composure. They enjoyed a good laugh and a cigarette together until they could "face the music" again. I'll never forget hearing that story of the alter ego of our beloved Captain Kangaroo.
Randy S
October 2, 2009
You made us more than we would have been without you. Quality television that grew our minds and formed our personalities. You were a partner with our parents and we remain grateful.
Donna W
June 21, 2009
I grew up with the roo. What a phenomenal man. I just found out he passed. I feel like I lost a member of my own family. I will always have you in my heart. You are one man who brought joy and laughter to so many, including myself. You were a real angel on earth and you will be sorely missed, always loved and never EVER forgotten.
Harry Mills
December 25, 2008
Bob Keeshan was one of the greatest men in television history He did so much for children and even I was watching him when I was a child. In 1960 when I started to watch his show I was 8 yrs. of age. Im 56 today and my heart goes out for this wonderful man he was one of the best and will be sadly missed. Harry Indianapolis IN.
Elaine
September 23, 2008
Capt. Kangaroo was a wonderful, kindly, gentle man. May he rest in peace. I only wish todays kids had someone like him on TV to eminate.
The good ole days are sadly gone. I am so glad my children grew up watching the capt on TV.
Daynah
August 28, 2008
Dearest Captain,
Memories of getting up in the morning, grabbing my bowl of Cream of Wheat, and plopping down on the flour in front of our black and white tv, and watching every move you made, and soaking up all the funny things that happened on the show....these memories have never gone away. I hope these memories never leave me....they are some of the best!!! Wish we could go back in time...those were the "good ol' days!!! You were a major part of my days. Miss you. Love, Daynah
Felix Locklin
August 5, 2008
Thank you Captain Kangaroo. I am 50 years old now and I still remember some of the lessons you taught me. I love you Mr. Keeshan for being Captain Kangaroo.
jackie Clark
August 4, 2008
To the Family:
It is sad to see such an American Icon past off the scene. Bob was a childs hero.I grew up watching him. If only todays entertainment could be as enjoyable. The Bible promises that one day soon their will be no more sickness, death, or pain. Their will be a new Heaven and Earth and Bob will be there.(Rev.21:1-4)
Leslie Sinclair
July 31, 2008
Brings back many memories...black and white TV..morning fun, early 50's, kind words, interesting stories,great introduction to make believe. Thanks Captain for a job well done!!
Belenda Kemp
July 31, 2008
Like so many others I grew up with your father as "The Captain." And like your father I believe that I had an idyllic childhood. I was fortunate enough to have a mother who was able to stay home with me while my father was off making a living. I cherish the many memories he gave me watching his show every morning that I can remember before I started school and wished so much that I could have shared those joyous memories with my daughter who was born in 1982, but not to be. I now have a 5 year old son who watches and grows from the many wonderful children's shows out there in TV land but he has never gotten to see the best of them all; the one that made all the rest possible. Your father was a very special man; loved and missed by many and even though he has been gone for too long now his love and guidance are still with us today. His legacy lives on.
scott caley
July 8, 2008
i watched you growin up--and now the lord is watching you your in good hands
mike alcorn
March 1, 2008
god bless him i remeber watching him on tv when i was a child and he will be missed millions my heart goes out to the family
Debbie Lane
January 7, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dave
December 21, 2007
God Bless a great man...When i was a child he meet so much to me and my brother and he still does...
God speed Bob Keeshan!
you will be missed
Talyn Storious
October 3, 2007
A timeless tour of duty
A high school kid out of Long Island, he joined the Marines in 1956 and eventually made Captain. He was proud to wear the uniform and understood the unique responsibilities that came with the parallel stripes. The opportunities for advancement were there, but he never aspired to a higher rank. Tending to the needs of his recruits was of the utmost importance to him. That was his calling, his mission and precisely what he wanted from his decorated career.
A stateside ‘lifer’ who retired after 35 prolific years of service, he saw his charges through war, natural catastrophe, nuclear proliferation, civil unrest and international crises. Through it all his leadership flourished.
He understood the troops to which he was assigned were, for the most part, eager, impressionable minds whose future successes and failures depended largely on the leadership to which they were exposed. He was, by all accounts, the leader they needed in every sense of the word. He knew how to reach them, instruct them and prepare them for their own tours of duty. Not with tough-guy tactics usually associated with the military, but with an unpretentious style and an indispensable sense of reassuring calm. He was as unique as he was incomparable.
Yet, in spite of his engaging countenance and premature silver hair -- which invariably evoked a sense of grandfatherly wisdom -- he could be a real bear when riled. There was no mistaking his bristle when called upon to denounce the hazards that could easily put his charges in harm’s way. No one in or out of the military defended his values more vehemently or lived them more consistently.
His technical specialty was field communications. As a strategist, tactician and engineer he pioneered cutting edge programming and employed broadband signaling to such widespread success that his methods eventually became standard procedure across international networks. His contributions to the craft earned him the utmost respect and recognition by peers and professionals alike as he quietly revolutionalized the very essence, industry and institution of communications.
Until the day his stripes were officially retired, his guidance and inspiration had a lasting effect on wide-eyed recruits, helping them -- as they say -- be the best they could be. He was more than a Marine, more than a soldier, more than a Captain. He was a champion: the best of his breed, the last of his kind and the first to dismiss such praise.
He died as he lived; with dignity, without fanfare. There were no draped caissons or 21-gun salutes to honor him. No eternal flames or missing man formations to pay tribute to the longstanding commitment he made to his country and its citizenry. Even so, the mark he made was such that Heads of State and people of prominent influence took note of his passing.
In a harsh world longing for heart, humanity and heroism, few equal that of the solitary Captain who waged a brilliant campaign to enlighten, enhance and enrich a generation of young American men and women during troubled times. And to think he did all that with little more than a grandfather clock, a moose and a bunny rabbit in his legendary battalion.
Brad Stueber
September 27, 2007
Dearest Captain, Thank you for what you did to be such a profound part in moulding the lives of an entire generation of young people. My earliest memories in the fifties was to sit cross-legged in my PJ's in front of the television every morning to watch Captain Kangaroo. We laughed and we learned too. We will always love you, could never forget you and thank you for everything. I am praying for your family, friends and many fans. Rest in peace now!
Judy Gail Krasnow
September 26, 2007
My father, Hecky Krasnow, was Captain Kangaroo’s record producer, broker of the contract Bob Keeshan signed with Columbia Records, and he wrote much of the Captain’s early musical material including “The Captain Kangaroo March,” and a series that included “Dance Along with Captain Kangaroo,” and “Five Little Taxis.” As a child, I sang backup with the Captain on songs like “Two Little Magic Words,” and I had the privilege of appearing on his television program with a few other children as we visited Mr. Greenjeans to see some new baby chicks. Then, Mr. Moose dropped ping-pong balls on our head. It felt like Manna from Heaven! My father and Bob Keeshan shared the same views about presenting quality material to children, respecting them, not talking down to them, and not making them targets of consumerism and products that do not educate and inspire imagination. Stories about Bob Keeshan, who also became a family friend, are in my new memoir published by Santa Monica Press, "Rudolph, Frosty, And Captain Kangaroo," a tribute to my father’s many accomplishments as Director of Children’s Records at Columbia and a tribute to Bob Keeshan and others who cared about quality and education in what records and television offered to children. I feel blessed to have both worked with and known The Captain. Writing about him in my memoir brought back beautiful memories of a wonderful human being.
Donald Stoves
September 11, 2007
From one Marine to another! "Semper Fidelis"
My deepest sympathy & condolences for Mr. Bob Keeshan's family. I have such happy memories of watching Captain Kangaroo as a small boy. It was my favorite show. As I am a Father now, I only wish children today had this wonderful show to view instead of what is on today. He was such a Great and wonderful kind gentleman, and I have such admiration for him, and his work. May he rest in peace. My Love and Prayers are with you all!!!
Cpl. Donald K. Stoves U.S.M.C.
phyllis payne
August 15, 2007
HE IS TRULY A LEGEND. I WISH THE
KIDS TODAY COULD HAVE SEEN HIS SHOWS. OUR CONDOLENCES TO HIS ENTIRE FAMILY.
Jamie
March 17, 2007
I was very young when you was on tv. But believe me you was my favorite show to watch as a young child. Believe it or not it was the very first show that I ever remember watching..Thank you for the memories you'll never be forgotten. I dont think anyone has really ever come close to having a show with such compassion for enteraining children like you did
rest in Peace
godspeed
Tony P.
March 15, 2007
I remember as a child watching the "Captain". I learned so much, and wish I could share these treasures with my own children.
Dawn Ries
March 4, 2007
God bless Captain Kangaroo...Many peaceful, happy memories thanks to the Captain...a piece of the past that could never be duplicated.
Terry cieri
January 7, 2007
Captain Kangeroo is my sweetest childhood memory.I have often talked to friends and we agree that we grew up in a "magical" time of innocence.He taught us so many basic things that could carry any adult into a successful life when it comes to manners and morals.My own children had some of the benefits of his show. I could't wait to introduce them to that show and was so sad when they stopped production.I had hoped my grandchildren would also get to know the Captain.All the people and characters on the show were amazing to me. I remember the day my mom called me and I was 51 in 2004, and she gave me the sad news that the Captain had passed, and my heart just broke, because I truly loved him and all the wonderful memories he gave and I was sad for future generations who will only hear of our Captain!And so, even though it's been almost 3 years,I would like to use those magic words one more time and say PLEASE to the KEESHAN family, know how much of a treasure he was to so many and THANK YOU for our Captain Kangeroo!
Maryanne Yakubowski
November 12, 2006
You were my friend when I was growing up. When i became a teacher, I kept that friendship going passing on your stories, songs and activities you taught me. You made my world a better place and for that I thank you. I know God has a special place in heaven for you to once again have a Treasure House. I hope to visit it and you someday when I get called home. God Bless You Captain.
FLORENCE JONES
October 26, 2006
GOD BLESS THE CAPTAIN,I WATHCHED HIS SHOW DURING MY CHILDHOOD YEARS.HE SHAL NOT BE FORGOTTEN REST IN PEACE CAPTAIN
David Michaels
October 25, 2006
Thank you for being like my father when I was about 3 years old. I am 54 now. I loved YOU MOST, then Mr. GreenJeans and that old space explorers cartoon where the little boy Jimmy and a Professor Nordheim are searching for his father on the Planet Mars I think.
Ceeann Hanna
October 23, 2006
Good Morning Captain,
I do not ever remember a time that the Captain Kangaroo show was not on T.V. My entire childhood was surrounded by a very few stable things and people. My parents thank God where one of them and the Captains show was another. I enjoyed and loved the charecters and puppets of the show and will always remember them!
To the Family of Bob Keeshan... he was very special to me as the captain and you have my deepest sympathy. Because I know he was very special to you in a much more intimate way.
May we all meet in heaven some day and once again hug the Captain to our hearts once again.
Ken
October 23, 2006
Sir, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You'll never know the comfort and joy you brought to me when as a scared little boy whose family was breaking up i could always count on one kind, funny,wonderful man and his wonderful friends to be there when i needed you most. I will never forget.
Mike Roberts
September 26, 2006
Captain Kangaroo was a show that influenced us all. He was an important part of my life; my day begin with his show. Looking back now, black and white television with tubes. He was the greatest.
Cathy O'Dell
August 11, 2006
Captain Kangaroo:
I watched your show every morning before school. Mr Green Jeans and you were like family to me. God Bless You! Rest in Peace!
Joyce Dodd
June 17, 2006
My Condolences to the "Captian's" Relatives as well as his Television Family. We all will miss Bob Keeshan, as Captian Kangaroo. . .I watched him as a child and loved the song "Puff the Magic Dragon," all the other characters on the show added to the Captian's entertainment for all children as we grew up watching his wonderful shows. It will be hard to fill the Captian's shoes. I will sincerely miss him. For all those in Lubbock, Texas where I would watch Captian with a dear friend at 8:00 a.m. every morn, Let's salute this wonderful man Bob Keeshan, known as Captian Kangaroo....there will never be another like him....I will miss him. God's blessings be upon his family. He was a hero to me.
Bill Griffin
May 4, 2006
I, like so many others learn a great many things from the Captain and his crew. I do have a question to those who read this. Does anyone know where to get the lyrics to the version of "Puff the Magic Dragon" that was played on the show? I am particularly interested in the last verse that was ONLY aired on the show.
Paul Boren
April 15, 2006
You were loving and kind and I cherished every minute I got to watch your show. We are in deep trouble in this country, because men like you on television are a dying breed. Via con dios. R.I.P.
Don Murrin
February 26, 2006
It is truly with a heavy heart, to note the passing of this warm and wonderful Man. Suffice it to say upon arrival at the Pearly Gates. "Another Marine reporting Sir, I've served my time in Hell" Thank you Bob for your service in the P.T.O. Notably Iwo Jima. And you never portrayed any of that in your character. Much Love to you Marine, Semper Fi. Donnie
Dean Hebert
February 18, 2006
You were the best friend a boy could have. I will always cherish the memories you gave me in life. To always expect the unexpected. I wish my children had the opportunity of seeing you.I Salute you Captian with love.
Steve Doblin
January 21, 2006
I like many grew up with the Captain. The memories are so vivid today,50 years later. Thank God I was able to tape many of the broadcasts in the 80's for my children who were so lucky to know the value that Bob Keeshan imparted to society and to children more specifically. Thank you Captain for all you did for myself and my children! Rest in Peace.
barry goldensmithe
September 27, 2005
I've always been called "cap'n" just like the real captain. Oh how I loved Mr Bunny rabbit and the reliable Mr Greenjeans. My wife tells me I need to be more like Mr Greenjeans. I loved the captain and I have most of the old shows and even my bunnyrabbit mug and spoon from when I was little. Now that I am unemployed, I can rewatch all the old shows on the tapes I have collected. I wish I had a pair of jeans like Mr Greenjeans.
Helene Schmidt
January 6, 2005
In turbulent, troubling times, he was always there on TV. Very comforting, very gentle and kind and a tremendously good inflluence on children.
I loved his show and Mr. Green Jeans and all of the puppets as well.
I wasn't sure which military he was a captain in when I was small, but he's in G*d's army now.
I loved him and he brought many hours of super entertainment to children which they sure need these days.
I am so fortunate and so blessed to have been a Captain's Kid.
May G*d grant him a tremendous place in Heaven for all the reassurance and love he gave to us here.
Dee
December 31, 2004
I remember looking forward every morning to watching Captain Kangaroo. Those were wonderful memories. Such a shame that children today couldn't experience the joy Bob Keeshan brought to our lives. I hope the Keeshan family will continue to be comforted by the promise of John 5:28,29.
Roland Vargovich
December 30, 2004
I'm glad MY generation got to grow up with you. Ping Pong Balls, Mr. Green Jeans, Dancing Bear, and of course, you, Kaptain Kangaroo... you will all be missed. I will forever be grateful for having you in my childhood.
J Love
December 15, 2004
I watched you when I was a young child and your teachings have carried me through life - what a great influence you have been on generations of young people! We miss you.
Linda Schuppener
December 14, 2004
After 52 years, I want to thank you, Captain Kangaroo, for helping me grow up to be the kind of woman who strives to exhibit the same quiet, caring and loving demeanor you exhibited to us for all those years. You will always be remembered.
Dawn Lee
July 28, 2004
You were a truly wonderful role model. You have taught us all some valuable lessons. Thank you Captain. Rest in peace.
Mike Johnson
June 30, 2004
Will miss him wish my kids could have watched his show
Kathleen Averill
June 18, 2004
Bob,
I grew up watching you on TV. You always had a kindness to you that captivated me. You are greatly missed. God Bless.
MICKEY
June 15, 2004
I WATCHED CAPTAIN AND MR GREENJEANS RIGHT ALONG WITH MY DAUGHTER. LOVED EVERY MINUTE !
Joey D.
May 31, 2004
He truly was great. He gave such comfort to me to see his show...Kinda like going to Grampa's house and just knowing you will have fun and learn something at the same time. Does anyone know where I could find and purchase some memorabila be it VHS tapes, or characters? This show really should be viewed by this generation too. I'd love to purchase them. Thanks! Joey
Miss Dinah George
May 24, 2004
I was So sorry to hear about Captain Kangroo"s death I used to watch him on Tv A lot. Love Miss Dinah Ps This country needs more Programs like his
Bill Cahill
May 13, 2004
I will always have a warm spot in my heart for Bob Keeshan of Kaptain Kangaroo fame..I watched him every day. Mr. Green Jeans, The moose,dancing bear, bunny rabit, all were favorites. Even, Grandfather Clock. Enjoyed most the riddles, ping pong balls, and cartoons. Wish I could get copies of those shows, they bring back very fond memories... God Bless you, and Good morning, Kaptain.
Ron
May 2, 2004
Goodbye great person,I watched you when I was young,and so have my kids.
Godspeed.
Darlene Dyess
April 4, 2004
I watched Captain Kangroo myself as a child and when my daughter was born I introduced her to his shows. He will be missed Darlene Dyess
Scot Ennis
March 28, 2004
Good morning Captain. You've undoubtedly already enjoyed your first few moment in heaven. I'm sure that you have met many old friends along the way, and still many, many more to come. I have wanted to meet you for years but could never find the time to break away from work and business. Now I'll have to wait a little while longer. By the way, thank you for all of the values and manners that you taught me. It sure came in handy. I'll make sure my kids learn the same lessons. Thank you for being a role model who was man enough to show kindness and mercy. Thanks for making me laugh when I was sick and couldn't make it to school. Thanks for Tom Terrific and Lariat Sam, and Mister Mayor and the Town Clown. In short, thanks for all those wonderful memories and lessons on life. I hope your shows can be made available to all of us again so we can share them with our kids and grandkids. See what you can do, OK? Until then, farewell from Scot, one of your biggest fans and admirers. See you soon.
Joyce Pyle
March 20, 2004
I grew up with Captain Kangeroo. I think that show was super for kids. We need more like that.
Susan Edwards
March 20, 2004
Dear Captain,
I will miss your smiling face, all the funny antics with Mr. Moose, Bunny Rabbit, Mr. Green Jeans, Dancing Bear and all the others.
Your quiet dignity and compassion was always evident in each and every one of your shows. I am a child of the '50's and remember that you were always a calming influence in a not- always perfect world. My brother and I watched you every time we could. We would sit in front of the t.v. drinking "Fizzies" and for a time be transported into a world where, yes, ANYTHING could happen. I remember all those ping-pong balls dropping from the ceiling and when I think about all the innocent sweetness of your programs, it brings tears to my eyes. There is not enough progamming suitable for children today.
Thank you for being a giant part of my and my brother's childhood. May you rest peacefully in Heaven with Mr. Rogers.
Captain, you have sailed your ship on it's final voyage. What a truly joyful destination! I know that I will see you one day.
Peace and God's blessings on your family.
Susan
BRENDA SIMMONS
March 16, 2004
We truly do miss Captain Kangaroo and the good moral shows that we were able to see. It is too bad that our grandchildren cannot be blessed with the same loving television shows that we were fortunate to watch.
thutmose romitu
March 16, 2004
I read all of the entries for the Captain. I'm not surprised at the response to his passing. It is quite obvious, that not only did he open the door for thousands of children to the wonderful world of imagination, kindness and love, he also helped to maintain a moral link to the pass for many of us adults. At 57 years old, I have lived a little. We all know that life is not all Mr. Greenjeans, Captain Kangaroo and bouncing balls. Some of us have experienced a less than perfect upbringing, marriages gone horrorably bad and having children whom we many or may not be close too. In the mist of our reality it is wonderful to be able to go back to a place where all was/is well. Where there are no unpleasantries. Bob Keeshan was far more than just an actor on a children's tv show. The Captain Kangaroo show was sanctuary. A place where we could go to have someone read a story to us. A place to go to where we would meet beautiful people and be intertained by them. Pitty the millions of children who will never experience that. Pitty the ones who are forced to watch todays tv. Especially those who need protection, guidance and love. Lets do Bob a favor and keep the candle lit as he did for us, for so many years. I trust that the Keeshan family knows what a magnificent legacy he has left behind. And that he lives forever in our hearts and minds. I was touched especially by the entry from the gentleman whose nick name became the Captain. Very moving and sums up beautifully the effect the show had.
Paula Gaon
March 16, 2004
16March2004
Gee, I thought I was sad when I'd realized that I'd grown up and The Captain no longer came on TV. Now, I realize just how fast time flies. But Captain, the lessons you taught our generation are still valid. Keep an eye out for us up there. We still need you.
~Paula
Mary Cleveland
March 15, 2004
My Mom never forgave the Atlanta channel for taking your show off, she had seen what great things you had done for us, her children and her grandchildren.
You were the grandfather who was in my home everyday and you are always in my prayers.
Bob Faith
March 12, 2004
From one Bob to another!......Keep the the Treasure House door in Heaven open for me.
Patricia Stokes Vaughn
March 9, 2004
So long Captain Kangaroo. You made my childhood sparkle with your smiles, laughs and everyone on your show. Thanks for the memories.
GAIL MIZE
March 6, 2004
I'LL MISS YOU CAPTAIN. FROM MR. GREEN JEANS, MR. MOOSE, BUNNY RABBIT, GRANDFATHER CLOCK, AND LEST WE FORGET DANCING BEAR, YOU FILLED MY CHILDHOOD WITH WONDER AND ENCHANTMENT.
I ONLY WISH MY GRAND BABY, HAILEY, COULD HAVE HAD
THE PLEASURE OF WATCHING YOU TOO.
SHE WOULD HAVE LOVED THE "PING PONG" BALLS.
GOD'S SPEED ON YOUR FINAL JOURNEY.
GAIL, JON, JENNIFER,
AND BABY HAILEY MIZE
GAIL MIZE
March 6, 2004
I'LL MISS YOU CAPTAIN. FROM MR. GREEN JEANS, MR. MOOSE, BUNNY RABBIT, GRANDFATHER CLOCK, AND LEST WE FORGET DANCING BEAR, YOU FILLED MY CHILDHOOD WITH WONDER AND ENCHANTMENT.
I ONLY WISH MY GRAND BABY, HAILEY,
COULD HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF WATCHING YOU TOO.
SHE WOULD HAVE LOVED THE "PING PONG" BALLS.
GOD'S SPEED ON YOUR FINAL JOURNEY.
GAIL, JON, JENNIFER,
AND BABY HAILEY MIZE
Janet Reeves
February 19, 2004
Bob Keeshan as Captain Kangaroo was a man who molded the early lives of children such as myself. It was his genuine gentleness, kindness, etc. that made children everywhere love him and feel as though he was a part of their real family. He will always be remembered by those of us that loved him!! My condolences to his family.
Dorothy Swann
February 18, 2004
I grew up watching "Captain Kangaroo", "Mr. Green Jeans", "Moose", "Rabbit", and "Grandfather Clock". What a wonderful time in my life. I truly regret that children these days don't necessarily have the same opportunity to just be "children". Thank you, Captain Kangaroo, for all the great memories.
Annie Robinson
February 17, 2004
Thanks Capt. you were a very large part of what made childhood special.
Vicki Bannister
February 15, 2004
I grew up watching Captain Kangaroo with my sister. He gave us many hours of entertainment and my mom a break! Thanks for the memories we loved you.
Bryan Young
February 9, 2004
Thanks for the memories. You helped make my childhood a wonderfull experiance. I regret that my two little girls won't be able to watch the Captain.
BCY
Jan Rodger
February 8, 2004
Captain Kangaroo was fun. I had to watch it everyday. I remember Mr. Greenjeans and Mr. Moose. The other wonderful things I remember from my young childhood were Dr. Seuss, Romper Room, The Little Rascals, and Wonderama. It is sad to know that he was not able to continue his program like he wanted to do. Because he taught us the right values, he was my hero. Lets not forget the high quality of programming that was on television then, that does not exist today.
Janice Brower
February 4, 2004
I remember watching Captain Kangaroo when I was growing up in Chicago. WGN-TV had The Ray Rayner Show, Garfield Goose with Frazier Thomas, The Three Stooges with Bob Bell and lastly Bozo's Circus. All the people dedicated to bringing us great children's programming are all gone. In fact, Ray Rayner passed away two days before Bob Keeshan. I can see Heaven is a richer place with these talented men. Good-bye and God Bless you Captain. My condolences to your family. When my dad passed away December 17, 2000, at his funeral service on December 21, 2000 the 23rd Psalm was used and I find great comfort in that scripture.
Jo Barrett
February 4, 2004
"It's all right to cry..." My first friend, first teacher, first love, and true hero is gone. I watched The Captain any time possible over my 50 years and have carried his influence to my students. The Captain and Mr. Keeshan shared the same heart. That heart will always be a part of me and countless others. My children never "knew" him and don't understand that this is genuine grief. All is well with my dear friend, whom I have longed all my life to meet. I am encouraged that possibly God will grant me that honor in eternity.
Lindsay Forness
February 3, 2004
Captain Kangaroo was the reason I stopped sucking my thumb. He told us that children can use pacifiers and suck their thumbs until Kindergarten. He suggested rubbing something smelly on your thumb as a way to stop - and it worked!
Julie Southern
February 3, 2004
Bon Voyage, Captain!
Karl Beck
February 3, 2004
I had two men that I looked up to as a child, Fred Rogers and Captain Kangaroo. Both men taught me that talking about things was better than acting in a rash manner. Now almost a year apart both men are gone to a better place to teach more children about love and peace. Captain I will miss you and your ideals of which I still think are right. Todays children are exposed to too much violence, and not enough laughter and fun. It is my hope that someone new will fill in the huge void that has been created by your passing.
Paula Hoekstra
February 2, 2004
Watching "The Captain Kangaroo Show" was part of growing up. He was like part of the family. If only we could have that type of wonderful, wholesome programming again today for our children! What a wonderful contribution he made to all !!!
karen waller
February 2, 2004
I pray for the comfort of Bob Keeshan's family I loved the Captain Kangaroo show as a child and as an adult it was like a comfort food there should be more moral shows for children like the Captain had will be missed
John Woodson
February 2, 2004
Thanks, Captain.
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