William Keeling, age 83, of Bowling Green, Ohio, went home to be with his Lord on May 5, 2018. His last hours were spent peacefully in the gentle care of the Cleveland Clinic surrounded by his family.
Bill was born July 23, 1934 to Edward J. Keeling Sr. and Margaret E. (Zapf) Keeling. He grew up in Clarion, PA. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps February 10, 1953. Following his time in the service, he went on to obtain his Bachelor’s degree from The University of Miami Florida in 1959. He married Shirley Smith on March 21, 1959 and she preceded him in death on June 4, 2011. On April 2, 2016 Bill was blessed with marrying the 2nd love of his life, Nancy Davis. They made their home in Bowling Green where she continues to reside.
Bill worked for Owens Illinois in Clarion, PA and was transferred by Owens Illinois to Toledo in 1964. He worked for the company in high school, college and after obtaining his Bachelor’s degree he continued to work for them as an Industrial Engineer for over 30 years. After his retirement, he and his wife Shirley embarked on an adventure as long haul truck drivers.
He was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Bowling Green. He was an avid Sailor, belonged to the North Cape Yacht Club, often participating in many races on Lake Erie. Bill had his private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying. While living in Florida he served in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He had a passion for golfing and was very particular about fixing things, always wanting them to be exactly right. His greatest joy in life came from the time he spent with his family.
Along with his wife Nancy, Bill is survived by his three children; Beverly Ann Keeling Elwazani of Bowling Green, Ohio, Alona Marie (Keeling) Williamson of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and William R Keeling Jr. of Naperville, Illinois, ten grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and brothers Edward J. Keeling Jr. of Tiberon, California and Frodey J.J. Keeling of Bowling Green, Ohio and cousin George Daniels of Windermere, Florida.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday May 8, 2018 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Dunn Funeral Home, located in the Historical District of Bowling Green at 408 West Wooster St. A Rosary service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday May 9, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 150 S. Enterprise St. Bowling Green, Ohio 43402. Father Mark Davis will officiate. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery where full military honors will be rendered by the Wood County Honor Detail.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to St. Aloysius Catholic Church or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
To share an online condolence or fond memory with the Keeling family please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com.
