Robert S. Keene Sr.

Robert S. Keene Sr., age 93 of West Boylston, formerly of Stow, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was the loving husband of the late Marjorie C. (Chase) Keene to whom he was married for 64 years.

Robert was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts on December 16, 1930, son of the late Earl L. and Margaret (Penney) Keene. He was raised and educated in Arlington Heights, graduating from Arlington High School, class of 1950. Upon graduation, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country as a machinist during the Korean War. Robert and Marjorie met on a blind date set up by his mother after he returned home from the service. They married on October 1, 1955, and made their first home in Watertown, MA. They welcomed their first child in 1956 and then continued to have four more children. The Keene family settled in Stow, MA in 1966 on Davis Road, located on Lake Boon. 

Robert worked as a general contractor doing painting and carpentry for many years. He started the Keene Company in the 1960’s and was eventually joined in this business by his son Robert, Jr. and had a very successful business doing work locally for residential customers. He eventually retired in the late 1980’s and went on to purchase several multi-family homes which he maintained for many years. He was also a member of the Masons.

Family was most important to Robert. He enjoyed spending time on the lake with his family, boating and fishing and he also enjoyed his yearly hunting trips with his friends. He was an avid bowler for many years, participating in various leagues at Crowell Bowl in Stow, MA. In addition, he and Marjorie enjoyed many cruise vacations and trips to Florida where they also had homes on Marco Island and later Port Charlotte. Over the years, Robert enjoyed the company of his many dogs. The family had several dogs at home while the children were still there and in their later years, Marjorie and Robert had a few additional furry companions that provided them with a lot of joy.

In his later years, Robert enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether it was going to sporting events, school events or special performances, he also enjoyed many special celebrations and was extremely proud of each and every one of them.

Robert is survived by his children, Stephen Keene of West Boylston, MA; Susan and husband Al Sukis of Hudson, MA; Robert Keene Jr. and wife Nancy of West Boylston, MA; Christopher Keene and wife Shelly of Shrewsbury, MA; his beloved grandchildren, Matthew Sukis and partner Alyssa Malozzi; Brittany DeGiacomo and husband Ryan; Shaun Keene and wife Shannon; Nicholas Sukis and wife Amanda; Justin Keene, Bethany Keene and fiancée’ Alec Baj; Ashley Sukis and fiancée Matt Giombetti and Margaret Keene; cherished great-grandchildren Aydan Sukis, R J DeGiacomo, Avery Sukis, Jaxson Sukis, Wyatt Keene, Colton Sukis, Logan DeGiacomo and Emerson Keene; and his sister-in-law Kathy Keene. Robert was predeceased by his son, Jeffrey Robert Keene and brother, Richard Keene. 

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Robert on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Fowler-Kennedy Funeral Home, 42 Concord Street in Maynard, MA. There will also be a Memorial Service, 11:00 am on Saturday, January 4th at Fowler-Kennedy Funeral Home 42 Concord Street, Maynard, MA. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s memory may be made to Dana Farber at danafarber.jimmyfund.org.