August 30, 1947 – February 12, 2025

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved father, Joseph Wilfred Keen, on February 12, 2025. Joe was born on August 30, 1947, in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, and was raised on the family farm near Mankota by his parents, Felix and Philipina Keen, alongside his siblings, Edward, Kay, and Michael.
In 1967, Joe married Bette Reiss and together they raised three children: Juanita, Bonnie and Jody. He was a hardworking man who wore many hats in Mankota, becoming a well-known mechanic at Wallace Motors, Mankota Trading and Selensky Service. Joe also served as a volunteer firefighter and later as the Fire Captain. His dedication to the community led him to serve as the town’s mayor.
In 1993, after their children were grown, Joe and Bette relocated to Claresholm, Alberta, where he continued his mechanical work at Beauchamp’s. Always eager to stay busy, he took on a variety of roles that he enjoyed, including working at a feedlot, caretaking an apartment building, serving as a janitor at Landers Health Service, where he loved visiting with patients and even inserting flyers into newspapers.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, his first wife Bette, his second wife Karen, and most recently, his brother Edward. He leaves behind cherished memories with his children Juanita, Bonnie, and Jody (Denise); grandchildren Kyle, Brett, Kyra, Tyler (Sarah) and Joshua; his loving partner Carol Hamilton and her children Janice and Pam; his sister Kay (Lou) Karpick; his brother Mike (Linda) Keen; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Joe found great joy in camping with Carol, where they made many wonderful friendships over the summers. He was an active member of the Legion, enjoyed playing darts, curling with his buddies, and spending time at the Agriplex.
Honouring Joe’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Please remember him for the kind, quiet soul that he was.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s name may be made to the Claresholm Legion or Cancer society.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Leishman and the incredible nurses who provided such compassionate care to both Joe and our family.