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Bernard "Red" Keenan

Born: 3/15/1944
Died: 10/1/2025
Age: 81
Community: Mount Morris, MI

Bernard Dale Keenan, affectionately known as "Red" to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, at the age of 81 in Montrose, Michigan. Born on March 15, 1944, in Flint, Michigan, Red was a man whose vibrant spirit and generous heart left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Red's life was a testament to his hardworking nature and creative spirit. For many years, he was the trusted truck driver for George Carden at the Carden International Circus, where he had the unique responsibility of hauling elephants, forming a special bond with Shelley, his favorite. Red retired from the circus in 2006, but the stories of his adventures on the road with the circus remained a favorite topic of conversation among his family and friends. His earlier years were filled with the roar of engines as he drove race cars at Auto City Speedway, showcasing his love for speed and competition.

In addition to his time on the track and with the circus, Red was a dedicated employee at Tiger Auto Salvage, driving truck. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering, building, or creating something new. Red's ingenuity and resourcefulness were truly remarkable, and his ability to solve problems was second to none.

Red was also a proud Shriner in his younger years, contributing to his community and embodying the organization's values of fellowship. His generous nature was evident not only in his community involvement but also in his everyday interactions with those around him.

Family was the cornerstone of Red's life. He is survived by his loving children, Dale (Jill) Keenan, Earl (Susie) Keenan, Lori (Dave Burgess) Keenan, Henry (Tasha) Keenan, Jenny (Steve) Vanhoet, and Nancy (Nicholas) Newell. Red was a cherished grandfather to 33 grandchildren, a doting great-grandfather to 65 great-grandchildren, and a delighted great-great-grandfather to 8 great-great-grandchildren. His legacy of love and laughter will continue to live on through them.

Red was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Keenan and Ada (Baucus) Merrill, siblings, Duane Keenan, George Keenan, Dolores Maynard, and Bonita Scirmarco and his grandson Tony Keenan. The memories of his warmth and kindness will be held dear by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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  Jansen Family Funeral Home
4705 Pine Sreet
Columbiaville, MI 48421

Phone: 810-793-6234

Web Site: http://www.jansenfuneralhome.com

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Visitation
Date:   10/1/2025
Time:   -
 
Funeral Service
No Service

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