Obituary of Francis C. Keenan

Devoted husband and loving father, Francis C. Keenan, was born to everlasting life on September 17, 2012. Frank was born to Francis A. and Katherine (Biddison) Keenan on January 26, 1936 in Philadelphia, PA. He was the "baby" brother of Katherine "Kit" (Keenan) Wilson. In his youth, Frank enjoyed trains, horseback riding, and hunting-a passion which he followed throughout his life. Frank graduated from LaSalle College High School in 1953, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1956. He was honorably discharged in 1959, though his pride in the Corps stayed with him through his entire life-even down to the crew cut that he sported from that time forward! After his discharge, he earned a Bachelor of Science at LaSalle College. Frank met Regina "Jean" (Robertson) Keenan in 1967 while both were working for Crown Cork and Seal Co. They married in 1970, and were very happily married for over 42 years. They had three children: Jean Marie, Francis S., and Mary Katherine. Frank was devoted to his family and always said that family comes first. He was elated when his children's marriages brought three more "kids" into his family, and he welcomed Christopher Johnston, Rene (Curcio) Keenan, and William Calcagni as his own. Over the years, the family grew to include six grandchildren whom he adored: William and Francis (Franky) Calcagni, John (Jack) and Sarah Keenan, and Kerrianne and Jessie Johnston. Frank took great pride in keeping family traditions alive. Annual occasions such as the Keenan Christmas Open House and the family trip to Avalon were events that could not be missed, no matter what the reason. He was a long-time member of St. Philip Neri parish, and stressed the importance of both faith and patriotism to his children and grandchildren. Frank had a strong work ethic and devoted 28 years to his labor relations career with the United States Postal Service. He was fond of debate, whether in the personal or professional arena. He was a talented public speaker- a gift that shined through whether guest lecturing in human resources classes or marking an important event with a personal toast. After Frank retired in 2001, he passed his time travelling with his wife, golfing, and hunting. He liked to keep current on the news, and he loved the Philadelphia Eagles. He also enjoyed spending time at the Keenan family mountain home. Frank lost his battle with cancer on September 17, 2012 at the age of 76. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister and her three daughters, Katherine "Kathy" (Crosson) Hylinski, Michele "Missy" Crosson, and LizAnn (Crosson) Grove, as well as countless other friends and family members who will always cherish fond memories of him. Frank was a blessing to everyone he knew. His family-and the world as a whole-are better for having had him here