Jack Keener

December 31, 1946 - November 28, 2024

Jack Charles Keener, a man who lived his life with grit, heart, and authenticity, passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 77. Much like his idol, John Wayne, Jack was the embodiment of rugged individuality- a true original, not a phony in sense of the word.

Born in Billings, Montana on December 31, 1946, (15 minutes before midnight), Jack carved out an extraordinary life for himself with his wife of 58 years, Betty Jean (Hunter). Together they ventured to Alaska in 1975, where Jack started a decade-long career in the oil field. He was known for his relentless work ethic and ingenuity. Jack was more than his career; he was a man who deeply loved his family and the ocean.

He found his truest joy in the great Alaska outdoors, whether steering The Sun Dog or The Silver Eagle (with his wife by his side), across shimmering waters or retreating to his beloved cabin in Little Tutka Bay, which he built with his son Johnny. Jack embraced life's simple pleasures; the company of good friends, the tide going in and out, and the peace that only a wild, untamed landscape can offer. A time to watch cavemen TV otherwise known as a good bonfire.

Jack was a man of substance, not flash. His unshakeable integrity and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know him. His stories, laughter, and wisdom will echo through the lives of those he touched.

Jack is preceded in death by his father Bernard Keener, mother Leora Keener, sister Kathleen Stanhope, and brother Ronald Keener.

Jack is survived by wife Betty Jean, sister, Karen McManus (Mark), brother Gary Keener (Cindy); daughters, Crystal Nygard (Scott), Amie Sommer (John) and son John (Angie); grandsons Eric Nygard (Sarah), Alexander Nygard (Ashley), Nikolas Nygard, Jackson Sommer, and Jake Keener; granddaughters, Kaylee Simmons (Brooks) and Alice Keener; great grandson Ridge Nygard and great granddaughter Micah Simmons.