Charles E. Keeney Sr., 79, was happiest when he was playing music or listening to music — especially country and bluegrass. He also believed in heaven, so after he meets up with Jesus and his own departed family members, he's probably making a beeline for famous musicians Bill Monroe and Bob Wills for a jam session.
Charlie — or, for those knew him from way back, "Tuffy," (his favorite childhood nickname) — passed away Sept. 8 in Joplin. He had lived around this area about 40 years.
Catherine Keeney, his wife since 1999, will be joined in her fond remembrances by Charlie's sons, Charles E. Keeney Jr. and Doug Keeney, daughters Melissa Barker (and her husband, Shon), Debbie Barringer (and her husband, Jeff), Karla Lukey and Teresa Salmon, as well as Catherine's three children.
Charlie had more than 10 grandchildren, more than 5 great-grandchildren, two brothers (Eura Keeney Jr. and Ralph Keeney) and two sisters (Wanda Farrow and Cheryl Veenstra).
We would be remiss if we didn't devote a line to his pug, Ladybug, his constant companion for years. He would pop her inside the front of his overalls, and off they'd go.
Charlie grew up around Kansas, graduated from Parker High School and preferred work he could do outside or with his hands. He was especially proud at age 18 when he was put in charge of a roofing warehouse. The rest of his career around Kansas and Missouri was spent in farming, maintenance and general contracting.
After his retirement, he and Catherine took road trips to California, Maine and the southwestern United States. They often pointed the vehicle toward bluegrass festivals and national scenic treasures. He also played his guitar or mandolin on his porch, making music with his son, Charlie Jr., and anyone else who came around.
Charlie was a 32nd-degree Mason and was most recently with Pythagoras Lodge 383 in Cassville, Missouri. He also belonged to the Shriners organization, and had been moved to support children's charities after losing a child, Marjorie.
The family asks that any donations in Charlie's name be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Services are planned for Saturday, September 13, 2014 at 10:00 AM at Parker Mortuary. Family will receive friends on Friday from 6:7:00 PM at the mortuary.
Service arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.
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