John F. Keene Obituary (1949 - 2010)

John F. Keene, 61, of Durand, IL died at 9:54 a.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at home. Born May 8, 1949 in Oak Park, Illinois, the son of George Keene and Gunhild (Skoglund) Gwathmey. Married the former Terry L. Meyers in Rockford, Illinois on July 19, 1977. John was President/CEO of Keene Technology, Inc in South Beloit, IL. John started Keene Technology in 1985 and attributed much of his success to his employees which he considered his extended family. He enjoyed his drums, Disneyworld with his grandkids, downtime and being a hobby farmer. He was a certified Pyrotechnician. John graduated from Rochelle Township High School and attended Denver University. Survivors include wife Terry Keene, Durand, Illinois; daughter Kerri (Scott) Wallace, Rockton, Illinois; grandchildren Emily and Mitchel Wallace; sister Cathy Cote, West Palm Beach, Florida and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial ceremonies will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010 in McCorkle Funeral Home, 767 N Blackhawk Blvd, Rockton, Illinois with Reverend Kirby Moses officiating. Burial in Rockton Township Cemetery, 600 West Street, Rockton, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, June 21 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Autism Speaks, 5455 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 2250, Los Angeles, CA 90036 and/or American Cancer Society, 4312 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108.