Obituaries
Richard “Mike” Keene, 73
May 20, 2024
Richard “Mike” Keene, aged 73, passed away on May 20, 2024, after a brief illness. Born in Lancaster, Mike was the cherished son of the late Richard and Regina Keene. He graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School and furthered his education at Millersville University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology.
Mike dedicated 30 years to the printing industry, concluding his career as an estimator for Graphic Crafts. Upon retiring, he found joy in serving as a crossing guard in Manheim Township, a role in which he made a lasting and positive impact on the children he helped every day.
He was a skilled woodworker who loved crafting pieces that he also hand painted for his friends and family. He made Christmas decorations, lawn chairs and piggy banks just to name a few of the beautiful items he created. His love for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Eagles was well-known, as was his passion for bird watching and reading about history. Mike had many years of volunteer work at the Gettysburg National Park, and the Manheim Township Park and Recreation Department, where he was a member of the board.
Mike is survived by his wife of 47 years, Dolores “Dolly” Keene, who stayed by his side throughout his life; his sons, Ryan Keene, husband of Kelly; Nick Keene, husband of Mackenzie; and Zach Keene, husband of Kelly; and his granddaughters, Olivia, Samantha, and Emilia. He is also survived by his siblings, Patrick Keene, husband of LuAnn, and Stephanie Keene, as well as many extended family members. Along with his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his brothers Stephen Keene and Jeffery Keene.
Mike’s legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and a genuine love for the simple pleasures of life. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal service. Instead, a family and friends gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association at heart.org or the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Fund at colonialwilliamsburg.org.
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Condolences to the Family
May 30, 2024
Dolly,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and the boys. We were saddened to hear about Mike’s sudden passing. He was a great guy, and you are a special family! He will be missed by many in the community where he gave so much of himself. May your many wonderful memories bring you peace in the days to come.
With much sympathy,
Tony and Sharon Madonna
May 28, 2024
Dolly, my sincere sympathy to you and your family during this very difficult time! May God grant Mike eternal rest. 🙏🙏🙏
Shirley Sullivan
May 27, 2024
Dolly,
Sending You vibes of love, support and healing in this most difficult time.
“Bobby” Brown
May 26, 2024
Dolly and family
I’m so sorry for your loss. I want you to know that it was a pleasure working with Mike at Graphic Crafts. He will be greatly missed.
Brian Welk
May 26, 2024
Our thoughts go out to you and the boys.
Mike will be missed.
With our deepest sympathy,
Chris & MaryEllen Stahl
May 26, 2024
Very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. I met him when he was doing volunteer work for the Gettysburg Foundation in the Visitors Center, as I am a Licensed Guide at the Park. Can remember a number of pleasant conversations with him concerning Gettysburg, the Park and Battlefield as well as our mutual connection to the Lancaster area. Always interested and friendly, I will miss him. My condolences to his family.
Richard Goedkoop
May 26, 2024
Dear Dolly and family,My condolences at this difficult time. I remember Mike’s ready smile and kindness. God bless. Mary Beth Hellberg
May 24, 2024
Dear Dolly & Sons, I am so very, very sorry for your loss. He sounds like a wonderful human being and I’m sure you have great memories. I pray the Lord gives you peace and comfort as only He can.
Love,
Gerry Gwinn
May 23, 2024
To Dolly and your boys… my prayers are with you all at such a difficult time. I’m so sorry to learn of Mike’s passing and pray for all of you for comfort and peace.
Lisa Peters
May 23, 2024
On behalf of the Manno family, our sincere condolences on your loss. “A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth.” – Ecclesiastes 7:1. At birth a person has no established reputation; his personal slate is totally blank. His life course will result in either a positive or a negative reputation. For those like Mike who have established a good name over the years, the day of death is indeed better in that respect than the day of birth. May your fond memories and his positive impact never fade.
May 23, 2024
Uncle Mike made me feel seen & heard & valued & *enjoyed* – ever since I was a little girl. I did not need to perform for him. He enjoyed me for who I was (e.g. someone who wonders about things & asks a lot of questions!). ❤️ He was quick witted and VERY funny and had a wonderful way of connecting with other people who “don’t fit the mold”. He left deep and abiding gifts in my life and heart.
Michelle Harris-Love
