Kenneth M. Keener

Kenneth Michael Keener, Age 72, passed away peacefully at his home in Vandalia, Illinois with his brother David Keener, sister-in-law Gina and dear friends Nathan and Maria Miller by his side.

Ken was born on the 19th of August, 1952, in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Delwin and Alice Keener. He spent his early years in Warsaw, Indiana with his parents and two brothers before venturing off to Greenville College, where he earned a Bachelor of Art in Philosophy and a Bachelor of Science in Education. Eager to continue his education, Ken moved on to Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville where he received a Master's Degree in English Literature.

After college, Ken was hired by the Illinois Department of Corrections as an Educator at the Vandalia Correctional Center. Soon after, he spent time with the Peace Corp in Honduras from 1985-1987. Ken was still working as an educator and an active member of AFSCME Local 993 after 46 years of service.

During his time away from work, Ken had several interests. On his quiet days, he enjoyed an espresso, a long run, a good book, reading and writing poetry, playing backgammon and maybe a trip to watch the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, where he has been a supporting member for many years. Other days, you may find Ken touring in his Corvettes, listening to music, looking for someone that could make a proper White Russian, or a friend to share a good Belgian beer with in a nice glass. Of which, he always brought his own.

Traveling was also a large part of Ken's life. Yearly trips to Europe where he would travel by train to revisit Paris, Florence, Venice, Bruges, Strasburg, Wien and other cities along the way. Filling his time with visits to museums admiring the artwork. Walking along the canals on his way to the Irish Pub Santa Lucia. In search of another shared dance or simple conversation with a complete stranger. Documenting his sojourn along the way so he could share the sagas with his nephews and the Tuesday night choir group at the cabin. There will be a celebration of this remarkable life on the 30th of August, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Vandalia Country Club. Memorials may be made to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in honor of Ken Keener.

Ken is survived by his brother, David Keener (Gina) of Leesburg, Indiana; Brother, Steve Keener (Kathleen) of McKinney, Texas; Nephews, Andrew Keener of Leesburg, Indiana, Adam Keener (Meghan) of Milford, Indiana, Paul Mambu and Peter Mambu of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Matthew Keener (Rachel) of Plano, Texas, Eric Keener and Joshua Keener of McKinney, Texas; Great nieces and nephews, Korbin, Wrenley and Carsyn Keener; Long time friend and bookend, Dean Lewis; Dear friends, Nathan and Maria Miller and Jon Lebold all of Vandalia, Illinois; and many more friends and colleagues.