Robert Earl McKeown

1940 - 2017

Robert Earl McKeown (Bob), 77, passed in peace Tuesday, September 5, 2017. Bob was born in Fort William, Ontario, Canada, August 8, 1940, to the late Lloyd McKeown and the late Helen Easton McKeown. He was the eldest of three sons, followed by his brothers, Larry McKeown and Allan McKeown. Bob started his papermaking career at Great Lakes Paper Company in Fort William and would soon be admired for his expertise in paper machine start-ups. With a gleam in his eye - and a new bride on his arm - Bob moved to St. John, New Brunswick, Canada, in 1965 to help start up a new paper machine at Rothesay Paper, and to start a new life with Judith Diane Taylor. After two years, Bob and his new family, now including daughter Maureen, moved to Rock Hill, South Carolina, to work at Bowater Papermill, where he would work for the next 10 years. Bob then followed his wanderlust to the Northwest to help start up the North Pacific Paper Company in Longview, Washington, before returning 7 years later to Bowater where he would later retire. Bob was a distinguished leader, a loving husband, a dutiful son, a respected father, an admired uncle, a caring grandfather, a helpful neighbor, and a contributing member of the community. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and was active in the Tega Cay Vintage Club, Men's Breakfast Club, and Men's Good Time Lunch Bunch. His passion for travel, history, boating, skiing, public speaking, smooth dance moves, his chat beauté, Irish whiskey, and (lord help us) his karaoke will not be forgotten. The McKeowns invite friends and family to “A Celebration of Life” luncheon to be held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, September 16, at Grace Presbyterian Church in Tega Cay. Bob is survived by his wife, Judy McKeown, his daughter, Maureen Tsuchida, he husband, Eiichiro Tsuchida, and their son, Lucas Tsuchida. He is also survived by his brother Larry McKeown and wife Carol, and his brother Allan McKeown and wife Beth, along with many nieces and nephews. Many thanks to Dr. Fanning of Greenville Cancer Center and to Agape Hospice for their loving care and support. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice.