Keven Warner

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Keven Roy Warner, of Webb City, Missouri, a man of adventure and resilience, passed away at the age of 66 on Monday, September 30, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. Born on February 14, 1958, in Aurora, Colorado, Keven's zest for life and love for the great outdoors were evident from his early years.

Raised in Burlington, North Dakota, Keven's formative years were marked by a sense of duty and service. After graduating from high school at an Air Force Base in Woomera, Australia, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country with pride as a paratrooper. His commitment to his nation was unwavering, and following his honorable discharge, Keven furthered his education at the Bottineau North Dakota School of Forestry, preparing for a career that would allow him to work in harmony with nature.

Keven's professional life took a turn when he joined the US Forestry Department as a Forest Service Agent, a role that allowed him to protect and nurture the wilderness he so loved. However, in 1984, his life was forever changed by a tragic motorcycle accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. Demonstrating immense strength and determination, Keven adapted to his new circumstances with grace. For 17 years, he worked at the Sheltered Workshop in Joplin, Missouri, where his perseverance and positive attitude inspired all who knew him.

An avid outdoorsman, Keven found solace and joy in the natural world. He was an enthusiastic hunter and fisherman, embracing every opportunity to be amidst the tranquility of forests and streams. His passion for archery led him to become an instructor for the Boy Scouts, where he shared his skills and love for adventure with younger generations. He also worked as a ski instructor while living in North Dakota.

Keven's adventurous spirit was matched by his warm and generous heart. He is survived by his mother, Marlene Nickerson of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his father, Bill Warner of Destin, Florida; his three sisters, Cheri Bales of Webb City, Missouri, Sandy Schalesky of Salix, Pennsylvania, and Tammy Atkin of Lompoc, California; his two brothers, Buster Warner of Webb City, Missouri, and Jeremy Struebing of Colorado Springs, Colorado. His numerous nieces and nephews, along with a host of other family and friends, will cherish his memory and continue to be inspired by his legacy.

Keven's life was a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. His journey was marked by courage, a deep appreciation for nature, and an unwavering commitment to living life to the fullest, despite the challenges he faced. Those who knew him will remember his adventurous soul, his dedication to his family and friends, and the countless ways he enriched the lives of those around him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are being directed to Webb City Health and Rehab Activities Department c/o 2077 Stadium Drive, Webb City, Missouri 64870. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.