Beverley Ann Keens (née Haennel)

With saddened hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Beverley Ann Keens (née Haennel) on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Hospice of London.  Bev was the beloved and devoted wife of the late Roland (Bud) Keens (2016) for 59 years.  She will be deeply missed by her 3 daughters Kim (Paul Sherriff), Julie Keens and Michele Keens.  Dearly loved Nana to Matthew (Ashley), Ryan and Andrew Sherriff, Ben and Lauren Krause and Chloe Parker.  Bev was blessed with three great- granddaughters Elizabeth, Victoria and Izabel Sherriff.

Bev was the loving daughter of Ernie and Freda Haennel.  She was predeceased by her sister Joan Theaker, brother-in-law Jim Theaker, sister-in-law Eileen Haennel, niece Lynn Roth, and nephew Todd Haennel.  Bev is survived by her younger brother Jim Haennel, nephews Mark and Stephen Haennel and niece Lori Theaker.

Bev was a true Guelphite, having been born and raised in Guelph and proudly educated at Loretta Academy.  Bev and Bud were married in Guelph in 1957 and resided there for one and a half years before Bud was transferred to Owen Sound, where their three daughters were born.  Bev, Bud and daughters returned to live in Guelph for five years before the family was transferred to London, Ontario.

Bev and Bud became involved in the community through their work with London West Rotary and various church activities.  Bev was an active member of the CWL at St. John the Divine and St. George’s parishes.

Bev started her working career at Leland’s Electric in Guelph.  After her daughters started school, Bev began to volunteer at Victoria Hospital in London, which eventually lead to an employed position in Patient Registration at Victoria Hospital.  Bev loved her job at the hospital and worked enthusiastically until her retirement.

Bev and Bud were excited about supporting their grandchildren’s activities, whether they were at a hockey arena, basketball court, soccer field, dance competition, or a skating show.  Their loud cheers of pride could be heard throughout the venues.  Bev’s grandchildren proudly wore hats, mittens and sweaters knitted by their talented Nana.  Bev’s great-granddaughters happily continue to wear her handmade gifts.

Bev and Bud enjoyed travelling during their retirement and spending time at their cottage on Lake Huron with family and friends.  Bev was a beautiful woman inside and out.  Her tenacity, quick wit and pride are attributes we admired in Mom and we all will continue to strive to demonstrate these in our daily lives.

A great big thank you to the wonderful neighbours the Keens family have had for 47 years while residing in London.  You have been a wonderful support to us and are an important part of our family.  Also a big thank you to Uncle Jimmy and Lori, who came in to support and guide us through this emotionally challenging time.  You truly have been our guardian angels.  A heartfelt thank you to the devoted staff of St. Joseph’s Hospice of London for their exceptional care and compassion.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. George Parish at 1164 Commissioners Road West, London on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations directed to St. Joseph’s Hospice of London.