Skip to content

Gary Keene

October 23, 2013

KEENE, Gary

1946-2013

It is with “broken down hearts” that we announce the death of Gary at home on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2013, after a 7 month journey with Leukemia.  He is survived by his wife Margaret (nee Johnson) and so proud of sons Ryan (Jennifer), Jeffery (Shauna) and 5 grandchildren, Meghan, Nolan, Channer, Calleigh and Clarkson.  Also survived by brother Douglas (Marilyn), sister-in-law Ruth Juryn (Bill Urquhart) and brother-in-law Mark Johnson (Sue).  Survived by step-mother-in-law Florence Johnson and seven nephews, two nieces and their families.  Predeceased by parents Bob and Ruth Keene, in-laws Colin and June Johnson.  Also predeceased by grandson Collin, granddaughter Samantha and faithful guidedog Brandy.  Gary was a proud member of the Armed Forces for 29 years.  His career was cut short when he lost his vision while peacekeeping in Bosnia.  He was supported for the past 19 years by Veterans Affairs and was able to continue with his passion for golf with help of good friends.  We would like to thank Canadian Blood Services for being our life line for the past 7 months, the nurses in ODU at the Cancer Clinic and Dr. Hamilton, Lee Ann Craig and the VON Palliative Care nurse Lyndsay.  Visitation will be held on Sunday from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, where the memorial service will be conducted on Monday, October 28th, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.  Private family interment of ashes, Appin Cemetery.  Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Gary are asked to consider the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind or a donation of blood as the need is great. 

Leave a tribute for Gary Keene

Leave a tribute

  • Accepted file types: jpg, png, gif, Max. file size: 2 MB.

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ edna and jerry valk

Margaret we cannot say enough about how privileged we have been to live beside you and Gary all these years. Our heart felt condolences go out to you and your family. We will all miss Gary. In spring when we would discuss what damage had been done to our lawns, in summer when the smells from the bbq would waft through our window. The little chats over the fence or as he returned from golfing. We know that family and friends will surround you. Our prayers will continue for healing and strength. We have such respect for Gary's strength, courage and determination. It is obvious he was a well loved man and he considered you his greatest blessing. Mary and Jason

~ Jason and Mary Peers

Our thoughts and prayers go to all the Keeene Family. We pray that God holds you all close in this time of sorrow, and that he shows you his steadfast love during this hard time. Our family is here to help support you all if there is anything that you need. Darryl and Johanna Bos and Family

~ Darryl and Johanna Bos & Family

Jeff, I am deeply saddened to hear of your Father's passing. My thoughts are with you and your family.

~ Jenn Rundle

After his vision loss, it was rewarding to see Gary's eyes light up when he thought he might golf again; but from that point on, I was really impressed by the reports of his re-found game! I remember Gary's great willingness each year to raise funds for organizations, while doing what he loved to do. Being so blessed with his family, he had no difficulty making the best of a tough situation: not seeing his target. You have made me aware I was playing with a man who wore the blue beret with honour. Thank you for sharing that information with us all, and for filling in the gaps through the display of his accomplishments. Gary always spoke with fondness of you Margaret, Ryan and Jeff.

~ Paul Perna

Our deepest condolences on the loss of Gary go out to you Margaret and your family. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. We will always cherish the time we spent together while in Germany and Gary will be missed by all who knew him.

~ Kevin and Ingelore Power

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Dave & Judy Campbell

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Crabby Joes Hockey Team

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Ewen and Carol Ferguson

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Dorothy Hess

It is with heavy hearts that we bid our final adieu to Gary. To Margaret, Ryan, Jeff and their families, please accept our sincerest condolences on your loss. We met Margaret and Gary in Germany and shared with them many happy memories on the ski slopes of Europe or in each other's homes. Gary was a kind and gentle person who we shall miss. We know that his wonderful spirit will live on with us and all who he touched. Thank you Gary for your service to your country. Thank you for being a good friend.

~ Gary and Christine McDermott

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Laura and Doug Beamish

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Sandra and Rich Moccia

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Kathy and Chris Tallman

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Alec & Jocelyn Hassan

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Kim and Pete Graham

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Wardsville Golf Club

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Fran Belsito & Percy Pilatzke

(Donated to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind)

~ Auntie Nella, Sue/Bob, Sophia/Jamie and Families

It had been too long since I'd seen Gary (and Margaret)--nine years, I'm sorry to say. He was a wonderful man, as everyone who has written here will attest. Strong, good-hearted--a man in full. My heart goes out to Margaret, the boys, and their families.

~ Gene Rebeck

Ryan, Jenn, Meghan and Nolan, Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Knowing that your dad, father-in-law, grandpa will always be with you and the memories you shared will forever be part of your life. Love and hugs The Lincoln Family

~ Jeff , Anne Marie Lincoln & Girls

Thoughts and prayers to the Keene family. We are very sad to hear of the battle Mr. Keene fought. We are thinking of you during this very tough event. Paul and Sheila

~ Paul and Sheila Winkley

Jeff, Shauna and the Keene family, our thoughts have been with you and your family since we heard the news. Jeff, you're dad was always so kind and friendly and I will miss him. I will always remember making sure my shoes were lined up in the right spot when I came to visit Jeff's parent's home, as I knew Mr. Keene would be double checking! Love Andrea and family

~ Andrea Gardiner (Borden)

Gary was an officer and a gentleman. He was a much needed Peacekeeper in this troubled world. Gary returned from a war wounded but remarkably resilient. He will be missed by his friends, his family and his country. Thank you Gary. With Love and Respect, The Webbs

~ The Webb Family

We were saddened to learn of Gary's death. If there is anything we an do for you or the boys, please don't hesitate to call.

~ Edna and Jerry Valk

Jeff, Shauna and Keene family Jocelyn and I were saddened to hear of Gary's passing. An amazing man who will watch over you now. Take comfort in knowing the great life he had and the strong family you have all built. Love and support always Alec and Jocelyn

~ Alec and Jocelyn Hassan

My thoughts are with your family. I will always remember Mr. Keene for his strength, determination and meticulous organization. Thinking of you at this difficult time.

~ Charlotte Damen (nee Konkle)

Wish I could have known him longer.He was a great guy in my eyes. I'll always think of him when I am smoking a salmon. I'll never forget the first time he visited our home and said "I hope you have your own bed Ruthie" Love to all the family.

~ Bill Urquhart

Our hearts are filled with sadness following the passing of Gary. He will always be remembered as a kind gentle lovely man . Our deepest condolences are extended to you Margaret , your sons and grandchildren. I will greatly miss talking with Gary as I walk our Charlie or whenever I greet Ray each Wednesday as he sets off to golf next spring. One of the last times I chatted with Gary he said how lucky he felt having you as his wife Margaret! God bless you and your family in your grief. With much love Wendy, Jay and family

~ Wendy Clewley Scott

It was with great sorrow that I heard of Gary's passing. I feel privileged to have known him. I will always remember his kindness to us as we invaded his home year after year and his subtle, sharp sense of humor. He loss will be strongly felt by so many, but he leaves a wonderful legacy in the family that I hold in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Laura Williams

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Margaret and with your sons and extended family. We know that you will be supported by friends and family in the difficult road ahead and that through the love and friendships of many you will be comforted and feel loved!

~ Marg andHenryKooy

My sympathy to you and your family in your loss.

~ Margaret (Munroe) Parsons

Margaret was like another daughter to me so I considered Gary a son-in-lsw and loved them both very much. I had fun with Gary over the years from the time of their wedding to as recently as last year. Our family is from the US and we loved visiting our Canadian family of which Gary was a big part. We will surely miss him on our visits to London but we'll never forget him. Our prayers are with Margaret and the rest of Gary's family.

~ Dawn Rebeck

Jeff, we at Fire Station 208 are so sadden to learn of your Father's passing!! A shock that we can't even begin to imagine! We are here for whatever you or your family needs from us-always. Our prayers, love and support go out to you, Mom and your entire family!

~ Randy Eastman

Marg- My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys at this tragic time in your lives. Gary will be missed by everyone that he touched in his awesome life.

~ Wendy McCaw

I, too, am greatly saddened by Gary's passing. What a great guy he was; I always enjoyed his company and also considered him a family member, even though he wasn't a blood relative. One of my favorite and best remembrances of him was, while playing golf with him, witnessing him score a birdie and an eagle on the same consecutive holes on two separate occasions: once before and once after he lost his sight. I am happy to have known him and am grateful to have seen him one more tome last summer at a small family reunion at his home. God bless to his family.

~ Paul Rebeck

Margaret, Ryan, Jeffrey and Families We are thinking of you with your loss of Gary. We have fond memories of family time spent together at Mark's cottage usually with Gary working hard to meticulously complete a project while on vacation. We extend our sympathy.

~ Ewen and Carol Ferguson

Very sorry for your loss, Margaret. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts.

~ John Cameron and Nola Dow

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind

Notify family of your donation

Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.