Jimmy KEESEE

Although it is difficult to sum up someone's life in just a few words, this is an attempt to capture the extraordinary life of Jim Keesee. The cruelty of a diagnosis of ALS in 2021 took him from family and friends far too early, but he left a mark on this world that will never be forgotten.

Jimmy Richard Keesee was born May 27, 1952, in Oklahoma City to Betty (Williamson) and Richard Keesee joining sister Kathy. Jim was a proud US Air Force veteran retiring in 1991 after 20 years of service with tours of duty in Europe including Spain, Germany and the Netherlands. He was honored to be decorated with the Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal and Small Arms Marksmanship Ribbon-just a small sampling of his many military accomplishments.

After his retirement he held several positions within the medical office software field. His last job was working at PAML for 6 years as a project manager for implementation. He was Mr. Gadget, fix anything kinda guy who answered the SOS when called and never complained.

Jim married his loving and devoted partner in life Debie in 2007, and they celebrated 17 years of marriage.

Being retired allowed Jim to pursue his passion for motorcycles and he was proud to have won numerous mileage awards from the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America. Debie hopped on a bike and joined him on the road for many adventures. Hopefully you caught sight of him riding around Spokane with his beloved dog Dixie, clad in doggles, co-piloting in the side car. The joy on Jim's face was contagious. Working on his bike brought many hours of joy to Jim and he was always thrilled when he was finished if there were only a few extra parts left over.

When you ran into Jim, he would always ask about you and your family. His sincerity ran deep. This did not stop when he was suffering from the effects of ALS. If you just had surgery, he wanted to be sure you were doing OK. A kinder man you could not find. Jim amassed an amazing group of friends that he stayed connected to. He remembered fondly his life-long Air Force buddies Ralph Wintheiser and Gary Head and all his colleagues at Wismer Martin. His circle included his motorcycling friends Rob and Marlene Brown and Ron and Judy Wiebe. A special place in Jim's life is reserved for Rick Williams-his closest friend after he moved to Spokane. A long-standing tradition of going to weekend breakfasts became selfless and loyal care after Jim's diagnosis. The family could not have done this without you Rick.

Jim's family would like to acknowledge and thank the ALS team at St. Lukes, ALSSO, ALS Association Evergreen Chapter and the VA for their outstanding care and support. Jim was blessed to have the same caregivers for over two years, Deena and Ashley, who are considered family. Thank you both, we love you!

Jim passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024, surrounded by his friends and family. He was a fighter until the end and did not let ALS rob him of his dignity, sense of humor or his glass overflowing attitude.

Jim is survived by his children Jimmy (Jasmine) and granddaughter Sierra, Nerea (Cameron) and his wife Debie. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister.

The world is not the same without you Jim, but you would hate that anyone was grieving. We are trying to follow your advice --to enjoy your family, friends, good food, good wine and maybe a spin on a motorcycle. A private Celebration of Life will be held on July 23. No flowers please, but if desired you can donate to a charity of your choice in Jim's honor.

Please share your memories of Jim on his tribute wall at www.hennesseyfh.com.