Carl John Keaney

Carl is preceded in death by his father, John Joseph Keaney and mother, Margaret Frances Frank Keaney. He is survived by his beloved partner of 22 years, Jennie Sullivan and her son, Sam, to whom he served as a second father; brother, Mark Gerard Keaney (Berryville, VA), sister, Mary Frances Keaney (Oak Ridge, TN); cousin, Mark Murphy (Boston MA); many loving cousins and adopted cousin, Margaret Goodman (NYC/ Knoxville). Carl is also survived by his three doting dogs, Molly, Marcus and Sadie.

Carl was born in Arlington VA. At the age of six through his teen years he resided in Reston VA. with his family. He graduated from Herndon High School in 1979. Carl loved the unique designs and features of Reston which inspired his interest in design and architecture. In 1979, Carl moved to his permanent home of Knoxville, TN where he enrolled in the architecture school at the University of Tennessee. He graduated with a degree in architecture in 1983.

Carl was undoubtedly a “hands on” kind of guy. Through a friendship with a neighbor, Richard Blacklock in Reston, he developed an acute interest in tools and woodworking. Carl credited this experience with his choice of going into the design and cabinetry business rather than practicing as an architect. He and his business partner, Eric Ohlgren founded Heuristic Workshop located at Jackson Terminal in 1993. Carl and Eric successfully ran the business together for 25 years. Carl and Eric also contributed to Historic Old Knoxville with the renovation of Jackson Terminal.

Carl met Jennie in 2003 shortly after she relocated to Knoxville from NYC. From that point on they became lifelong partners. He profoundly touched not only Jennie’s life but also the life of her son, Sam from the age of three years on.

Carl was adventurous soul from the start and he maintained his adventurous spirit throughout his life. He loved, more than anything, being in the outdoors, mountain biking, hiking, camping, snowboarding and most of all, whitewater kayaking.

Carl lived his life in a quiet, thoughtful, humble and considerate way, always aware of how he could assist those around him. He was a perfectionist at almost everything he endeavored in and he strove to master. Carl will be deeply missed by his family and many lifelong friends.

A 4:00 pm Celebration of Life, to honor Carl, will be held on February 16, 2023 at All Occasions Banquet Hall, Jackson Terminal, 213 West Jackson Street, Knoxville TN 37902.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to American Whitewater. (americanwhitewater.org)

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.berryhighlandmemorial.com for the Keaney family.