James E. Keener

Born in Weston, West Virginia, Jim was a longtime resident of Springfield Township in Akron, Ohio. He graduated from St. Patrick School in Weston, West Virginia and proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. After his service, Jim retired from RCA Rubber Co. and spent many years as a beloved bus driver for Springfield Local Schools and St. Vincent/St. Mary Schools.

Jim had a passion for coaching little league baseball and softball, restoring and appreciating classic cars, and creating cherished memories with his grandchildren, whom he adored and spoiled at every opportunity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles E. and Mary J. Keener; and his siblings, Bob Keener, Mary Catherine Fallon, and Margaret Starr.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Sue Keener; his loving children, Nick Piekarski (Colleen), Jennifer (Piekarski) Morgan (Jack), and Eric Keener (Laura); his treasured grandchildren, Cameron, Carter, Cailey, Chloe, Caden, Cooper (Nick), Jaydan, and Jaryn (Jennifer); Steven (Kailyn), Jacob (Alexis), Roselin, Ayden, Jaxon (Eric), and his great-grandchildren, Layla, Jayce, and Elliott. He also leaves behind his brothers, Chuck Keener and Joe Keener, and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, January 31, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road, Akron, OH 44312. Military honors will follow at 6:00 p.m., with a celebration of Jim’s life immediately afterward at the Mogadore VFW, 385 Randolph Road, Mogadore, OH 44260.

In honoring Jim’s memory, the family invites all who knew him to celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and service to others. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Jim's memorial fund at https://gofund.me/3b0206f7 .