Bert Anthony Keene of Auburn, Washington, passed away on October 29, 2019 at the age of 56. He was born on September 21, 1963, in Glendale, California, the middle child of five. He attended school in Idaho, Montana, and Washington before graduating from Auburn Senior High School in 1982.
Striving to embody the ideals of hard work, dedication, and loyalty, Bert enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. These ideals were honed and proved to be a strong foundation for the family Bert would one day help to build, and indeed, throughout the entirety of his life.
On July 25, 1992, Bert embarked upon the most important journey of his life when he married Janie Rice. Bert loved Janie fiercely and endeavored to be the champion of her love. Together they brought two sons into the world; Dalton and Daylen. A humble man, Bert was nevertheless proud of his new- forged family and sought to make his home a place of constant comfort, extending his hospitality to many.
Family was of the utmost importance to him. He provided a home and support to exchange students, friends, and extended family. His house a ready respite to those he and his family held dear. He loved gatherings; reunions, picnics, and parties – anything to reiterate and reinvigorate his sense of family. The holidays could never come soon enough nor last long as they ought.
Though seemingly gruff in his demeanor, it was the kind of gruffness an old hound dog might display. Passionate in both compassion and protectiveness. The solace of his family something he was not readily willing to be parted with, their safety something he would never compromise.
He partook in the myriad aspects of his children’s lives, from school to sport. He loved coaching and helping his boys and their friends succeed on whatever path they chose. Hard yet gentle, Bert had a deep appreciation and understanding of humanity, and utilized his own honesty and integrity to better serve those around him. Bert’s kindness and generosity were evident through his selflessness, always willing to give freely of his time and energy.
He is survived by his wife Janie, their two sons Dalton and Daylen, his parents, Roberta and Steven Weech, his siblings, Tonya McCormack, Steve Keene, Dale Weech, and Tim Weech; along with numerous relatives, and a host of long-time friends.
Interment will occur at Tahoma National Veterans Cemetery, Kent, Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), benefitting the Veterans Homeless Reintegration Project, PO Box 41150, Olympia, WA 98504-1150.
