Kenneth "Ken" Edward Keener

Ken was born on March 2, 1924, the son of the late Lewis and Lottie Hewitt Keener.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and three sisters. He is survived by his wife, Gaye; a sister-in-law, Eunice Keener; God-daughter, Nelie Morrison Prince; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Dr. Billy Price and Anne Martin. The family is particularly grateful for his loving caregivers Heather Belton, Hanna Archibald, Alana Gibbs, Betty Miles, and to his very dedicated helper, David Barber.

He was raised in Maiden NC, graduated from Maiden High School in 1943, and was drafted into the United States Army during World War II. He achieved the rank of technical sergeant and was stationed in the European Theater. He was captured by the Germans at Saint Vith, Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge. He was transported by the Germans, by train, to the Russian front to escape the advancing Allied Forces. When the Germans met the advancing Russian army, Ken and 2,000 other prisoners were forced to march back into Europe for 500 miles over two months during a very harsh winter. He was liberated in Luxembourg and received the following awards; European African Middle Eastern ribbon with two bronze stars, good conduct medal, purple heart, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

He continued his education at Kings Business College in Charlotte. Ken met Gaye Cline Keener at the Balls Creek Camp Meeting and they were married on June 10, 1950. Ken was employed at Klopman Mills in administration and later joined Bassett Upholstery, from where he retired as the regional sales manager. Ken grew his wonderful collection of friendships throughout his work and life and is known by all as a true gentleman, sacrificial friend, and man of honor.

Ken was a long time member of First United Methodist Church of Newton and served as a leader in the church on many boards and committees. He and Gaye were members of Catawba Country Club, joining in 1964, where they enjoyed golf, wonderful meals, and social relationships with their many friends. Travel was a wonderful interest in their life and they particularly loved traveling to the Caribbean Islands.

The service of Death and Resurrection will be held at First United Methodist Church of Newton on Tuesday, September 19 at 2 p.m. followed by a reception at the church. Rev Laura “Willis” Greene and Rev Dan Martin will be officiating. A private burial will take place at Friendship United Methodist Church prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the First United Methodist Church Capital Fund, PO Box 926 Newton NC 28658-0926 or to the Friendship United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 1373 Newton NC 28658-1373.