Truman Keene Jr.

Early in the morning of November 26, 2025, our father, Truman Keene Jr., known to
many as Butch, Butchie, or Butchie Boy, took his final breath on this mortal earth. He
left this world the same way he entered it and lived his life—his way. For the last twenty
years, he often said that 78 felt like a good age to be done with this world. His birthday
was November 21, and just days after celebrating, he kept his word and stepped into
eternity on his own terms.
From humble beginnings, he built a life marked by grit, loyalty, laughter, and love. He
was at once a hellraiser and a devoted son; a husband of 54 loving years; a father who
was fun, firm, and fiercely loving. To his grandchildren, he was a tender, playful Papa
who taught them the meaning of unconditional love—often with just enough mischief to
keep life interesting. To his great-grandchildren, he was Big Poppy/Great Poppy, the
one who made them feel like the most precious and amazing little humans in the world.
He began working construction at just 15 years old and proudly served in the United
States Navy during the Vietnam Era. He spent his life providing for his family the best
way he knew how—through hard work, sacrifice, and determination. A pile driver by
trade, he retired from the Carpenters Union at the remarkable age of 40, then began a
second career as an ironworker. He retired at 65 as a proud member of Ironworkers
Local 1.
He often told his four children, sixteen grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren
about all the buildings that Daddy, Papa, and Big Poppy helped build — leaving
behind not only steel and concrete, but a legacy of strength, work ethic, and pride that
now lives on in all of us.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda; his parents; and his six
brothers and sisters.
He is survived by his four children:
his daughters, Angela Keene (spouse Emily) and Andrea Hannon (spouse William);
his sons, Truman (Derek) Keene III (spouse Sue) and Jeremy Keene (spouse
Tiffany);
his sixteen grandchildren, Vincent, Sean, Paige, Liam, Antonio, Lauren, Noah,
Frank, Caylee, Joe, Jacob, Alex, Kayla, Madison, Ari, and Riley;
and his four great-grandchildren, Rose, Sylas, Sol, and Violet.
He was known to many as a friend. To some, an enemy. But to those who were blessed
to be loved by him, he was—and will forever remain—a source of love, protection,
and unwavering presence.

Irish Blessing

May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

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