John D. Keener, Sr.

WW II veteran, Purple Heart recipient

 John D. Keener, Sr., 92, of North Billerica, died Sunday, November 27th at Greenbriar Terrace HealthCare in Nashua. He was the beloved husband of the late Rita D. (Benoit) Keener who died December 14, 2009.
 Born in Boswell, Oklahoma, October 13, 1919, the son of the late John Lafayette Keener and the late Josie (Mayo) Keener, he received his education in the Boswell school system. After school, John became a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a public work relief program and was honorably discharged after serving two tours.
 A highly decorated disabled veteran of World War II, he saw action at the invasion of Sicily under the command of General George S. Patton and then during the Italian Campaign under the command of General Mark Clark and was wounded in action near Traverecco, Italy. He was ultimately awarded the American Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, 2 Battle Stars, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Purple Heart.  
 Before retiring, John worked in civil service as an automobile mechanic for the U.S. Government at Ft. Devens in Ayer for his entire career following his honorable discharge from the Army.
 Among his many activities, he loved gardening including planting flowers and vegetables of all kinds which he generously distributed to his many neighbors and friends. He also enjoyed woodworking and was known to be so innovative that he would make things from twigs and branches such as actual working whistles. He was also an avid rodeo fan dating back to his roots as a native Oklahoman.
 John is survived by a daughter Linda Morse and her husband Donald of Pelham, NH; a son John D. Keener, Jr. of Andover, NH; a grandson Matthew R. Morse of Merrimack, NH; and many nieces and nephews.
 He was also predeceased by five sisters and one brother.
 There will be no calling hours and Funeral Services will be held privately. E-condolences at www.odonnellfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by the O’DONNELL FUNERAL HOME, Lowell, Ma. (978 or 866) 458-8768.

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