Charles Raymond Keelan |
| Posted 2009-07-12 by Sharla |
| THE WICKENBURG SUN THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 26, 2003 Charles Raymond Keelan (Chuck), 76, passed away on Feb. 20, 2003 after an extended illness. He lived in the Wickenburg area since 1966. Born in Jackson, Mich., he grew up in Lansing, Mich. where he attended local schools. He attended college on the G.I. Bill. Prior to enlisting in the navy in 1943, he worked in the circulation department of the Lansing Daily News. After serving three years in the Navy he returned to the paper where he worked in all departments. He rose to the position of journeyman printer. He later joined the John Henry Company where he became sales manager of the Commercial Division. After vacationing in Colorado and Arizona he decided to relocate. He had always longed for the Western lifestyle. After living in Phoenix for a year he moved to Wickenburg. Over the years he was involved in several occupations, which included managing the Chamber of Commerce for two years, managing the Remuda Guest Ranch in its final years of operation, working with the State Highway Department and working as a finish carpenter and painter for local contractors. During his time in Wickenburg he enjoyed many different aspects of the Western life. He made two Desert Caballeros rides as a guest and worked as a wrangler for the ride for seven years. He also worked as a wrangler for several Las Damas rides. He rode with the Gold Shirt Gang in its early years. He helped found the Wickenburg Roping Club and was its first secretary-treasurer. He was the announcer for "Dudeos" held at local guest ranches. He also rode and gathered cattle for the Effis Ranch. Chuck's love of Wickenburg and its Western ways and lifestyle was reflected in his values and the way he lived his life. He will be missed by his family and friends. He is survived by two daughters, Nancy J. Hayes of Wickenburg and Cyndi J. McMillan of Larkspur, Colo.; one brother, Hugh Keelan of Lansing, Mich.; three grandchildren, Clint Hayes of Wickenburg, Tracy Jo Tess of Loveland, Colo., and Jennifer McMillan of Larkspur, Colo.; three great-grandchildren, Tanner and Levi Hayes and Katie Jo Tess. The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to the Hospice Family Care, 10240 W. Bell Rd. Ste. E. Sun City, AZ, 623-876-9100. You are invited to join with the family and friends in a celebration of Chuck's life at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 8 at the Rancher Bar in Wickenburg. Enjoy the things Chuck enjoyed in his lifetime-good music, good food, good friends and family. |
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