Obituary – Robert Keen, 78

March 19th, 1933 – December 14th, 2011

Bob Jordan Keen was born on March 19, 1933 in Jasper, Alberta. He was the only child of John and Elenor Keen. Shortly after his birth they moved to Entwistle, Alberta then on to the Peace Country, settling in Pouce Coupe. Bob had many jobs, but the most notable was driving truck for Canadian Freightways. Bob eventually saved enough money and bought a second hand cat and went to work for himself. Although his business ventures were not without failures, Bob started making a name for himself by taking all the work he could and using his earnings to purchase more equipment. The result was an incredibly successful company Keen Industries. Bob focussed his business in the north and came to make his home in Fort Nelson. At one time Bob owned and operated 12 successful businesses and employed hundreds of people. In the 1970’s, Fort Nelson was trying to raise money for a rodeo. Bob built the grounds and race track himself and sponsored the whole rodeo on his own. He did so for many years until they could make it on their own. In 1972 Bob sponsored Ralph Vigen’s chuck wagon outfit and they went on to win the Calgary Stampede and the WPCA world title. Bob was an active member in many organisations; Masonic Lodge, Shriners, FNAWS and Rocky Mt Elk. He was an Alderman from 1989-1991 in Fort Nelson and was voted citizen of the year. He was also awarded the bronze medallion from the Feds for sports sponsorship. He was very interested in hunting and did so in many places in the world, including Africa and Afghanistan. Bob owned and operated Diamond K Outfitters out of Scoop Lake and was a good outfitter. He also loved flying, he had many different aircraft over the years. He owned Arctic Air and operated 17 aircraft out of Fort Nelson and Dawson Creek. Bob was married 3 times. His first wife, Ruth had 2 daughters, Carmen & Laura. His second wife, Joan, had 4 children, Andrea, Sandra, Colin & Robert. Bob then married Valarie and they had 2 sons, Clint and Brent. Bob was a remarkably hard working person and was a man of great pride. He was cherished by his many friends from all over the world. Bob believed in hard work and always said ‘They don’t owe you a living, go out and make it on your own.” Bob passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2011 in Dawson Creek at the age of 78 years. A Memorial Service was held on Wednesday, December 21 at 1:00 pm from Reynars Funeral Chapel. Pauline Haycock officiated. Interment will be held at a later date. Bob was predeceased by his son, Colin. He will be forever remembered by his children, Carmen (Al), Laura, Andrea (George), Sandra (Don), Rob (Meredith). He will also be fondly remembered by his numerous grandchildren and extended family and dear friends.

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