Charles H. Keene, Jr.

Age 90 of Hamilton, OH passed away Monday, July 27, 2009 at Hospice of Hamilton. He was born December 20, 1918 in Hamilton, OH, son of the late Charles and Freda (Rupp) Keene. Charles was very much a family man, and a great father to his sons. He was an accomplished carpenter and gardener, and enjoyed coaching and watching his sons and grandchildren's athletic endeavors. Charles played on a number of city champion softball teams and is a member of the Butler County Softball Hall of Fame. He retired in 1983 after 44 years as a machinist, splitting his employment between the Baldwin Lima Hamilton Company and Hamilton Tool. On November 6, 1943 Charles married Martha Jane Frey, who preceded him in death in July 1986. On January 21, 1989, he married Gertrude Simmer, who passed away on June 6, 1999. Charles served his country during WWII, serving in the South Pacific for the US Navy. He was a devout Catholic and was a parishioner at St. Stephen/St. Julie Billiart Churches since 1945.

He leaves behind his 2 sons; Terry (Debbie) Keene and Bob (Charlotte) Keene; grandchildren, Kevin Keene, Jim Keene, Kelly Christman, Josh Keene and Caleb Keene as well as 9 great grandchildren; brother, Robert J. Keene; and sisters, Betty Collins and Helen Richter.

The family would like to send their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Pastor and her staff; and to Hospice of Cincinnati / Hamilton.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Thursday, June 30, 2009 at the St. Julie Billiart Church 224 Dayton St., Hamilton, OH 45011 with Father Mike Pucke, Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Stephen Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, June 29 at the Avance Funeral Home & Crematory, 4976 Winton Rd., Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Cincinnati. Condolences may be offered at www.avancefuneralhome.com

Visitation

6-8 p.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2009, @ Avance Funeral Home

Service

10 a.m., Thursday, July 30, 2009 @ St. Julie Billiart Church