BAR HARBOR – William S. Keene Sr. passed to the next world Dec. 8, 2005, surrounded by his loving family. The son of Otis and Addie Keene, Bill was born Feb. 18, 1926, in Camden. When he was five years old the family moved to Bar Harbor, where Bill remained. Having served his country in the Navy during World War II he returned home and soon married Avis Shaw. They celebrated their 59th anniversary on Oct. 31, 2005. For many years Bill operated “Keep Kleen with Keene: Your friendly Garbologist” where he became known for his prompt and dedicated service. For the last 15 years, Bill has faithfully serves as sexton at Holy Redeemer’s Church in Bar Harbor. Having the gift of gab, for the past 50 years he was also known to be among the local 4 a.m. crowd at Jordan’s Restaurant for breakfast and coffee, animated stories and strong opinions. Quenching his thirst for the sea, Bill could be seen visiting the early morning fisherman and folk on the Bar Harbor Town pier. Bill was truly a local character who will be sorely missed in Bar Harbor due to his kindness and humor. He was a lover of the outdoors, enjoying many happy seasons at his camp at Donell’s pond where he fished, rowed up and down the pond and enjoyed quality time with his family. A man of great virtue, Bill taught his family the importance of hard work, abiding by your word and serving other’s unconditionally. He helped shape the lives of his children and grandchildren and for this they are forever grateful. He is survived by his wife, Avis, of Bar Harbor; his children and spouses, William Keene Jr. and his wife, Marge, of Greensboro, N.C., Richard Keene and his wife, Gail, of Trenton, Jerry Keene and his wife, Barbara, of Bar Harbor; daughter, Debbie Oechslie and her husband, Robert, of Brewer. Bill is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. In addition he leaves two sisters, Mary Brown of Bar Harbor, Alice McDonald of Massachusetts; and a brother, Royal Keene of Franklin; dozens of nieces and nephews and faithful friends. He was predeceased by brothers, Robert, Richard and Oliver; sisters, Elizabeth Clemons, Charlotte Clemons and Barbara Willey. Friends are invited to call 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at Jordan-Fernald, 48 Eden St., Bar Harbor. Spring interment will be at Ledgelawn Cemetery, Bar Harbor. At the family’s request, gifts in William’s memory may be made to Island Connections, 15 Eagle Lake Rd., Bar Harbor, ME 04609.
WILLIAM S. KEENE SR.
