Gary Lloyd Keener

Gary Lloyd Keener

May 4, 1951 – July 22, 2026

Gary Lloyd Keener, 75, of West Salem, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, after a sustained period of declining health.

Gary was born on May 4, 1951, in Lodi, Ohio, to Harlan Sidney Keener and Nedra Veroncea Keener (née Arndt). A 1969 graduate of Black River High School. He worked for a time at Myers Pumps in Ashland, Ohio and was an employee of the old gas station in “downtown Sullivan” (his daughter fondly remembers growing up around the smell of cars and begging her dad for change for the coin operated pop dispenser!) Gary also spent the bulk of his career as a dedicated employee of Napa Auto Parts, where he was known for his dependability, his love of cars, and his distinctive, gregarious laugh.

In 1976, Gary married his partner for life, Patricia Ann Hiles. Their marriage spanned almost 49 years. Theirs was a partnership marked by much patience, quiet humor, and unconditional love.

Gary found joy in life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed fishing on Lake Erie back in the day with his cousin Gerald. He was an avid bowler for many years in the Wellington Monday Night Eagles League, enjoyed an occasional round of golf at Pheasant Run, often enjoyed spending time at Dragway 42, and never lost his appreciation for classic American cars. He was a longtime member of the Wellington Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2051 and, in his younger years, proudly volunteered with the Sullivan Fire Association.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Ryan) Apple, of Roanoke, Virginia, and his four grandchildren: Royce, Franklin, Tabitha, and Thomas Apple, each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and happiness. He is also survived by his sister, Joyce (Tom) Rouse, of Creston, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia; his parents; and his brothers, Alvin H. Keener and Raymond D. Keener.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the all of Gary’s caregivers, family, and friends who checked in on him regularly during the past year. Though he will be missed beyond words, his quiet strength, gentle heart, and enduring love will always remain with those who knew him.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Foxfield Preserve in Wilmot, Ohio. A celebration of Gary's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gary's memory to the Town & Country Fire Association, 60 N. Lincoln Street, West Salem, Ohio, 44287, in recognition of the important work they do serving the community.

The Matteson Funeral Home staff is honored to serve Gary’s family and the community. If you would like to share a photo or memory of Gary with the family, please do so at mattesonfh.com