Longtime Little Silver resident, U.S. Navy vet, area mailman and volunteer, John (Jack) K. Keenan passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Aug. 4, after a short stay at Riverview Medical Center. He was 88.

As a Navy veteran, Jack served during the Korean War. After an honorable discharge, he worked as a fireman at NWS Earle for several years before joining the U.S. Postal Service where he worked for more than 40 years, first in Red Bank and then in Little Silver. “He loved talking with patrons and knew everyone in town, although he jokingly referred to himself as ‘Oscar the Grouch,'” his loved ones said in his obituary.

“He was a devoted family man. His daughters’ friends all knew him as the dad who drove them to Girl Scout camp, youth group and sports activities. He coached rec basketball. When his grandchildren came along, attending their activities and sporting events was one of his favorite pastimes.”

Loved ones of Jack Keenan in his obituary

After his retirement, Jack immersed himself in the community via part time jobs and volunteer work. He worked as an usher for Thompson Memorial Home, was an usher at St. James RC Church in Red Bank and did volunteer food delivery for The Center in Asbury Park for many years.

“Jack’s love of dogs led to a lifelong hobby. He trained and exhibited Schnauzers and Border Collies for years before becoming a licensed AKC Obedience trial judge, traveling to shows throughout the country. He served several terms as president of the Bayshore Companion Dog Club.“

Loved ones of Jack Keenan

Jack is survived by: his wife of 63 years, Roberta (Platz) Keenan; his twin brother, Joseph; his daughter, Stephanie and her husband James Keenan; his daughter, Jennifer and her husband Michael Forrar; and grandchildren, Elizabeth Keenan, Colin Forrar and Grace Forrar.

He was predeceased by his parents John J. and Elizabeth (O’Sage) Keenan, and his brother, Thomas Keenan.

A memorial will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad Street, Red Bank. A mass of christian burial  will be celebrated on Thursday, Aug. 12 at 10 a.m. at Saint James RC Church, Red Bank. Guests are invited to celebrate Jack’s life by wearing his signature style, plaid.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Parker Family Health Center, 211 Shrewsbury Avenue, Red Bank, or the Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey, Holmdel.

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