Samuel Leroy “Sam” Keehn, 80, of Soldier, KS, passed away Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at his home with family by his side.

He was born March 8, 1943 in Goff, KS, the son of Frederick Henry Lawrence and Mary Belle (Holt) Keehn.

Sam graduated from Soldier High School in 1961. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1961 - 1964 in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was stationed in Japan where he completed the remainder of his military service.

Following his military service, Sam returned home and married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Jean “Jeannie” Tribble on October 17, 1964 in Soldier, KS. They celebrated nearly 59 years of marriage.

Sam worked for over 33 years at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, retiring in 1998. He was a member of the Steel Worker- Union.

Being handy, Sam built their home, sheds, and playhouse (once grandchildren were on the scene). His personal interests over time included bee keeping, drawing, and canning among other activities. He was an avid gardener and fisherman, and he loved to dance. Sam took an interest in cooking and helped Jeannie prepare and serve many meals for friends and family. A long-time athlete, Sam transitioned to golf the highlight of which was a hole-in-one. Sam and Jeannie traveled widely across the U.S. visiting their sons and enjoying trips with friends. They had especially fond memories of repeated trips to gulf coast beaches with family. Sam generously shared his time and talents, and he always had a smile when he was spending time with grandkids.

Sam- faith in Christ was an integral part of his life. He was a member of the Soldier Christian Church.

Survivors include his wife, Jeannie of the home; two sons, Larry T. Keehn of Overland Park, KS and Mark A. Keehn (Jada Kohlmeier) of Auburn, AL; two sisters, Donnalee Keehn Fields of Havensville, KS and Mary Woltje (Charlie) of Topeka, KS; three brothers, Fritz Keehn (Rosemarie Miller) of Soldier, KS, Ernie Keehn of Wetmore, KS and Richard Keehn of Idaho; two grandchildren, Gage and Mara; five bonus grandchildren, Cory (Alex), Micaela (Johnathan), Lilian, Sierra and Adeline (children of Gary and Megan Keehn); and three bonus great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Mary Belle Keehn; two sisters, Sue Randel and Peggy Dodson; one brother, Ed Keehn; two sister-in-laws Lavon Keehn and Margaret Keehn; and one brother-in-law Charles Dodson.

Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment will follow at the Soldier Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Alpha Christian Children- Home c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.