Per John’s wishes, a private family gathering will take place at a later date that has yet to be determined. Aspen Cremation and Burial Services is responsible for his after care.

John was educated in the Falls City Public Schools, graduating from Falls City High School in the class of 1980, where he was a stand out track athlete. He, at one time, held school records in the 220 yard dash and in the 330 yard intermediate hurdles. After graduation from high school, John went on to attend school at Kearney State College.

Though he never earned a degree, he certainly completed more than enough hours to earn one. There was so much to learn there that he could never decide what he liked best and kept changing his major. He truly loved learning and never regretted the time spent in college.

After college, John moved to Lincoln, where he went to work for the University of Nebraska on their grounds crew. More than anything, John loved being outdoors and he thoroughly enjoyed taking care of all the established landscaping and trees on that beautiful campus, at one point becoming a certified arborist. He possessed a wealth of knowledge about trees, especially those native to Nebraska.

In the late 90’s, he took a job with Lincoln Public Schools at Lakeside Elementary School, doing custodial and maintenance work. He loved that job as well and always had good things to say about the teachers and staff. John loved the environment and truly enjoyed the kids. In typical fashion, he went the extra mile and also volunteered as a Cub Scout leader and led the school chess club. John continued to work at Lakeside until his illness forced him to retire in 2023.

In 2010, John reconnected with an old friend, Liz Wilson. That relationship blossomed and Liz ultimately became his best friend, his partner, and his true love. They were married on February 1, 2023. Liz stayed by his side and diligently cared for him until his passing.

John had many interests and hobbies over the years. He was an incredible athlete, running marathons, riding thousands of miles on his trusty bicycle, taking long distance solo hikes in the mountains of Wyoming, rock climbing, and of course his beloved fly fishing. He would often set up his tent in the back yard of his home and sleep outside, just to be closer to nature. John loved music and especially watching brother Mike perform with any of several bands in the Lincoln area over the years. He loved animals of all kinds and he always enjoyed a good crossword puzzle, regularly doing the Sunday New York Times puzzle with Liz. During the last few years, his annual trip to Belize with Liz was a high point in his life.

Living in Lincoln for most of his adult life afforded him the good fortune of acquiring many friends and acquaintances. He was a loyal friend, always placing great value on those relationships.

John was a good friend, a wonderful brother, uncle, and husband. He will be truly missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife, Liz, of Lincoln; two brothers, William (Bill) Keeling and his wife Sonia of Grand Island, and Michael (Mike) Keeling and his wife Ann of Lincoln; and a sister, Anne (Keeling) Fischer and her husband Craig of Papillion, as well as a niece and four nephews. Additionally, he is survived by two great nieces and a great nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.