Obituary of Ronald L. Keeling

On February 11, 2023, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, Ronald L. Keeling

 passed away peacefully at his home in Venice, FL. He was a cherished husband, father,

 grandfather, brother and uncle, and left behind a legacy of love and service.

 Ron's journey began in the vast expanse of West Texas, where he spent his formative years.

 He was the son of the late Armond and Leona Keeling. He is survived by his wife, Lois, his son,

 Stephen, his daughter, Elisabeth and his granddaughters, Shania and Savanna all residing in

 Venice, FL and a son, John, residing in Maine.

 Also mourning his loss are his sister, Lela, her husband, Ray, as well as his sister, Patsy, all

 residing in Texas. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jerline, and brothers, Aubrey, Julian,

 Gaylon, and Jackie. Additionally, Ron will be missed by his sister-in-law, Fran, brother-in-law

 Ken, his niece, Jayne and many other nieces and nephews.

 At the age of seventeen, Ron made a pivotal decision to join the U.S. Navy, embarking on a

 decade-long service. He served on aircraft carriers, which included being stationed in the

 tumultuous Vietnam theatre. Ron's commitment to public service persisted as he transitioned to

 a civilian role for the U.S. Navy. During his long tenure as a civilian employee, Ron displayed

 determination and ambition by earning his degree and receiving multiple promotions. In 1990,

 Ron began a new chapter in his life, and transferred to Washington, D.C. He developed his

 expertise in transportation for the U.S. Navy and the General Services Administration. After

 forty years of government service, Ron retired but found himself seeking a new adventure.

 Surprisingly, it came in the form of another job in “transportation” as a school bus driver. He

 often said it was his favorite job. Known affectionately as "Mr. Ron," he wholeheartedly

 embraced this role, forming deep connections with the children, their parents and his co-

 workers. It was a job that filled his days with joy, making him grateful for the opportunity to be

 a positive influence in the lives of the young ones he transported.

 Ron's life as a whole exemplified a journey of service, hard work, and gratitude. Throughout his

 life, he consistently acknowledged the blessings that graced his path. He considered himself a

 very lucky man. He cherished his happy marriage, the love of his family, and his ability to

 provide for others and give back to his community. It was a sentiment that remained a driving

 force behind his generous spirit. He was always willing to lend a hand to family, friends and

 strangers. His presence and love have left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family and

 friends. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by his family and those whose lives

 he touched.

 A military honors service will take place on Friday, September 15, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at

 Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. A Celebration of Life

 will take place on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at the British Open Pub, 367

 Jacaranda Blvd., Venice, FL 34292.

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ron's honor to the National Coalition for Homeless

 Veterans (https://nchv.org) or the Fisher House Foundation (https://www.fisherhouse.org/) or

 any hospice organization of your choice.