Robert "Bob" L. Keene, 71, of Boalsburg, died Friday, August 15, 2008, at Mt. Nittany Medical Center in State College.
He was born August 2, 1937, in Millheim, the son of the Amber L. Rishel Keene who survives in Boalsburg and the late Nestor Warren Keene.
On May 4, 1958, he married Jean Elizabeth Dashem who survives at home.
In addition to his wife and mother he is survived by two daughters, Pamela Jean Keene Jackson and her husband Robert of State College, and Lori Ann Keene Stiver and her husband Kevin of Boalsburg; and five grandchildren, Robert D. Jackson, Brandon L. Stiver, Nicholas C. Stiver, Kyla L. Jackson, and Cory N. Jackson.
Bob graduated from State College High School in 1955, and went on to graduate from Pittsburgh School of Barbering, and the Pittsburgh School of Cosmetology; and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Elizabethtown College. He received his Barber Teacher's license in 1965. He established the first barber program at Rockview State Correctional Institution, serving as instructor and manager of the Institution's Barber Shop until his retirement in 1988. Bob also worked for Davidson's Barbershop and Bill Williams Barbershop, both in State College. Following his retirement from Rockview in 1988, he took over the family business, Keene's Barbershop in Boalsburg, and operated it until his final illness.
He was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Boalsburg, a long-time member of the Boalsburg Cemetery Association, a lifetime member of the Boalsburg Fire Company, a member of Old Fort Lodge #537 of the Free and Accepted Masons in Centre Hall, and a member of the Pennsylvania Association of Probation, Parole and Corrections, serving as president in 1981 - 1982.
A man of varied abilities and interests, and an excellent conversationalist, he especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, and most importantly, spending time with his family.
At his request there will be no public visitation. Also following his wishes, a private graveside service for immediate family only, will be held at the convenience of the family at the Boalsburg Cemetery with the Reverend James Williams officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 123 S. Sparks St., State College, PA 16801.
An on-line guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.