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BORN
1946
DIED
2024
Jack Keener Obituary
December 31, 1946 - November 28, 2024
Jack Charles Keener, a man who lived his life with grit, heart, and authenticity, passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 77. Much like his idol, John Wayne, Jack was the embodiment of rugged individuality- a true original, not a phony in sense of the word.
Born in Billings, Montana on December 31, 1946, (15 minutes before midnight), Jack carved out an extraordinary life for himself with his wife of 58 years, Betty Jean (Hunter). Together they ventured to Alaska in 1975, where Jack started a decade-long career in the oil field. He was known for his relentless work ethic and ingenuity. Jack was more than his career; he was a man who deeply loved his family and the ocean.
He found his truest joy in the great Alaska outdoors, whether steering The Sun Dog or The Silver Eagle (with his wife by his side), across shimmering waters or retreating to his beloved cabin in Little Tutka Bay, which he built with his son Johnny. Jack embraced life's simple pleasures; the company of good friends, the tide going in and out, and the peace that only a wild, untamed landscape can offer. A time to watch cavemen TV otherwise known as a good bonfire.
Jack was a man of substance, not flash. His unshakeable integrity and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know him. His stories, laughter, and wisdom will echo through the lives of those he touched.
Jack is preceded in death by his father Bernard Keener, mother Leora Keener, sister Kathleen Stanhope, and brother Ronald Keener.
Jack is survived by wife Betty Jean, sister, Karen McManus (Mark), brother Gary Keener (Cindy); daughters, Crystal Nygard (Scott), Amie Sommer (John) and son John (Angie); grandsons Eric Nygard (Sarah), Alexander Nygard (Ashley), Nikolas Nygard, Jackson Sommer, and Jake Keener; granddaughters, Kaylee Simmons (Brooks) and Alice Keener; great grandson Ridge Nygard and great granddaughter Micah Simmons.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jack Keener
2 Entries
Rhodney C.
December 6, 2024
A mentor, supervisor, great friend and an experienced fun co-worker. That's the way Jack was because not only a supervisor but he would get in there and work right along side you. Working on the West side for Aurora jacked gained great respect from all the hands.
Working with Jack on the SSDC out in the Beaufort Sea for a Canadian outfit and the pit system literally had holes in it and the Canadians wanted to start mixing different kinds of mud all at the same time utilizing three hoppers at once.
They didn't want to believe Jack about holes in their Pitts. Until he demanded they come and look for themselves. They asked Jack how to fix them and Jack said "only one way, order this Black tar paste I use on MY vessel in Homer." "How much" they asked? Even after they ordered what Jack said, then we had trouble with the shakers and Jack knew how to trouble shot that issue too. Jack was a treasure chest of wealth and knowledge knowone would know until he was asked.
A great friend and mentor and his family was the same. Betty and Jack always engulfed me with kindness and hospitality.
My most sincere and deepest condolences and prayers to Betty and the whole family.
I'll miss you and your quick witt.
Cindy Sand
December 5, 2024
Jack had a gruff exterior when I met him although it did not take long to know he was a softy on the inside. RIP Jack.
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