Earl Eugene “Gene” Keown age 84, passed away peacefully at the Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital in Bowling Green surround by his loving family. Gene as everyone called him was born in Bowling Green to the late Earl and Winona Virginia Carter Keown.
Gene is also preceded in death by his son Steve Keown, brother, Ronnie Keown, sister, Doris June Keown, grandsons, Terry Keown and Chase Yates.
He retired from Woodwork of Mid America as a CNC Operator. Upon the untimely death of his father, he became the Patriarch of his family, a role he did not take lightly. He embodied the spirit of togetherness in strength and wisdom by taking care of his family, who often times were unable to take care of themselves. He loved his family so much. One of his favorite quotes: “Family is Everything – Without it, We are Nothing” Mario Puzo. In his later years he was able to fulfill his adventurous spirit by traveling out west with his wife and young daughter and explore Alaska. He loved to tell stories of his childhood and adventures. He was a frequent attendee of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bowling Green where he also attended school as a child.
Gene is survived by his wife of 28 years, Tina Kieffer Keown. Son, Randy Keown (Della) of Lafayette, Louisiana, daughters, Lisa Yates (Eddie) of Gulf Shores, Alabama and Winona Keown Gentry (Tyler) of Bowling Green. Brother, Jerry R. Keown of Bowling Green. Several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Visitation will be 11:00 am to 2:00 pm Monday with the funeral starting at 2:00 pm all at the J.C. Kirby and Son Broadway Chapel. Burial to follow in the Fairview Cemetery. The family would like to express their tremendous gratitude to the staff of Fresenius Kidney Dialysis Center and the Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital. Expressions of Sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause dear to his heart.
