Francis Joseph Keenan May 8, 1943 – January 23, 2025

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Francis Joseph Keenan, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who passed away peacefully with family and friends by his side on January 23, 2025, at the age of 81 after a battle with lung disease.

Born on May 8, 1943, Frank graduated from Duquesne University and went on to become a respected Certified Public Accountant building a career that earned him the respect of many in his field. However, it was his zest for life, boundless energy, and love for adventure that truly defined him.

Frank’s athletic spirit and adventurous nature were at the heart of everything he did. Whether it was swimming, running, basketball, tennis, or cycling, Frank was always on the move. He completed his first marathon at age 50 and cherished fishing trips in Alaska. In 1998, he discovered a deep passion for cycling, participating in more than fifty Century rides. One of his proudest moments was completing the 25th anniversary of the grueling Death Ride, a cycling event which includes six climbs over three Sierra Nevada Mountain passes. Frank also loved long rides on his Harley Davidson and spent countless hours riding across the country, always eager for the next adventure.

Frank’s dedication to family was unwavering. He was a doting father to his children, Holly Keenan and Heather Hunter and a proud grandfather to Jared and Lucy Levine, Grace, Gavin, and Bennett Hunter. Frank loved time spent with his grandchildren, often traveling with them and always making an effort to be present for their milestones. He was known as “Big G” to his grandkids and loved every minute of his role as a grandfather. Frank also cherished his time with his long-term companion Debby Kelly enjoying Saturday night dinners and years of cycling Southern California together.

Beyond his athletic pursuits, Frank had a great love for the simple joys of life, such as boating around Newport Harbor on his Duffy, morning coffee with friends at Dad’s on Balboa Island (mug still hanging on the wall), and countless rounds of golf when visiting his brother Jim. He had a passion for learning and was always reading, traveling, or discovering something new. Frank was also a lifelong Los Angeles Clippers fan, and his last evening was spent watching the Clippers play the Celtics.

Frank’s optimistic and social nature made him a beloved figure in the community. He was always quick with a smile, a joke, or a helping hand, and his energy and enthusiasm were infectious. He leaves behind a legacy of a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Frank is survived by his brother, Jim Keenan (Dale Keenan), his children, Holly Keenan (Jordan Levine), Heather Hunter (Eric Hunter), his five grandchildren, Jared and Lucy Levine, Grace, Gavin, and Bennett Hunter, his longtime companion Debby Kelly, and niece and nephew Jennifer Bennett and Andy Keenan.

Predeceased family members: Frank’s parents Francis Keenan, Marion Keenan, and the mother of Frank’s children, Marion Steiner Keenan.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held Friday, April 11 at Unity of Tustin. Details below in the Events section

Frank suffered from an incurable lung disease called bronchiectasis. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to American Lung Association