Gregory K. Keefer
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Gregory K. Keefer, 70, died peacefully on January 30, 2023, after nearly a decade living with a cruel form of early-onset dementia – Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD).
Greg was born on January 4, 1953, to the late Jerry and Maxine (Seanor) Keefer in Oil City, PA. The son of two teachers, he also became a teacher after graduating from Clarion University. He stayed in touch with many folks from high school and college and loved to reconnect with others later in life through social media. He taught 7th grade math at Curtin Middle School in Williamsport, PA for 33 years (and was a substitute teacher even after retirement), mentoring and encouraging countless students and befriending all his coworkers.
Greg was smart and also wise. He had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh, especially at a pun or dad joke. He was engaged in his community and church, quick with a smile and a handshake or hug. His kind, genuine nature endeared him to everyone he met through his numerous activities. These included singing tenor in multiple choirs, playing trombone in bands, preforming in community theater, admiring antique cars, biking, playing racquetball, woodworking, waving a Terrible Towel, cheering at swim meets, and playing (usually winning) trivia at the Bullfrog, the Sticky Elbow, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Greg loved music, cars, chocolate, and learning new things. Greg’s deep faith in God was the foundation for the way he loved people.
Greg especially loved, and was beloved by, his family. He met his wife, Kristin (May) Keefer at a South Pacific cast party. She went to support a friend in the musical then saw him singing “Some Enchanted Evening” in a tuxedo and the rest, as they say, is history. They married on August 6, 1982, and were devoted to each other for 40 years, but their love deserved longer. He always made sure her car was immaculate and that she got a sparkly bauble for Christmas. Greg was kind, patient and supportive father who was unceasingly proud of his two children, Bennett (Lindsay) Keefer and Ellen (Andrew) Slikker. Having summers off together was the best, with lots of time spent in our backyard pool and pools across Central PA. Greg captured many family memories from behind a giant, 1980s camcorder which are now treasured videos. His kids carry on his warm brown eyes, allegiance to Pittsburgh sports, and compassion for others. His granddaughter, Elliot Slikker, brought a great deal of joy to his final years. He was preceded in death by his sister and best friend, K. Christine Holman. He is also survived by many extended family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were like family.
The Keefer family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to our wide support system of friends, Ascend Health hospice service, and the dedicated staff of Bridge Haven in Lawrence, KS. Your actions, thoughts and prayers were integral in assisting Greg and us.
In lieu of flowers, and without expectation, donations can be made in Greg’s name to the Williamsport Community Woodshop’s Veteran’s program (gifts made to Factory Works for Williamsport Community Woodshop, mailed to 1307 Park Ave Box #12, Williamsport, PA 17701) or to the Friends of Rider Park https://www.fcfpartnership.org/donate/
A small remembrance service will be held at Vintage Church in Lawrence, KS on Saturday, February 4 at 10:30am. We ask that attendees wear a mask. A celebration of life will be held in Pennsylvania at a later time.
I am so sad to read of Gregs passing. We were childhood neighbors and friends. Several years ago he posted a picture of box hockey at the Mitchell Field playground. I now live across the street from there and often thought of him as I looked out my front window. We shared many hours of kick the can in the alley and bike riding and friendship. Please express my sincere sympathies to his entire family from his old neighbor Miriam Barber .
With deepest condolences to the family. Mr Keefer was my 7th grade Algebra teacher at Curtin Middle School. My fondest memory of him was his interest in my ability to play the tuba. One day Mr. Keefer handed me an unlabeled cassette of a pro tuba player and simply said that this was a former student of his father. It would be years before I would figure out that the tape contained recordings of Jim Self, one of the most prolific tuba players in the world. I went on to make a career playing the tuba and still have that cassette from nearly 40 years ago. Thank you Mr. Keefer for playing a small role in keeping the fire lit on my desire to pursue the tuba as a life long habit. Rest in peace and GO STEELERS.
Greg was my very first Best Friend, beginning in the mid-1950’s, in Oil City PA, when we were about 3 or 4 years old. He started kindergarten one year before me, and I missed him so badly that I would stand in the alley and wait for Greg at the end of the school day. We stayed in touch on and on throughout the years and he served as a pallbearer for both my Dad and stepmother. He and my Dad shared a love of cars from the time Greg was a little boy until my Dad’s death. His sister Christine kept me updated on Greg’s condition these last few years until she sadly passed recently. He was one of the nicest and classiest guys I every knew and I send my deepest sympathy to Kristin, Ellen & Bennett and his little grandson. Greg will always hold a special place in my heart.
Greg was such a warm and kind man. I have many fond memories of teaching with him at Curtin Middle School and performing with him at the Williamsport CTL. Sending love and peace to Kris and his kids. Xoxo
Sending love and prayers. Greg was such a kind and wonderful person. He always made you feel seen and valued. And the music he offered was always such a gift. He will be deeply missed. May God’s peace provide comfort in this time.
Mr. Keefer was one of the nicest guys I ever had the pleasure of knowing. We ate lunch at a special table at Curtin nearly every day. He was very intelligent and great to play Trivial Pursuit with. I’ll miss you Mr. Keefer and that’s what I always called him. RIP my friend.
Kris, Bennett, Ellen – I’m heartbroken to hear of Greg’s passing. My deepest condolences and sympathy to all of you.I always enjoyed talking with Greg, and I know how deeply he cared for all of you. You will be in heart, and in my prayers while you move through the days, weeks and months ahead. Love and strength to all of you.
I am so sad to hear of Greg’s passing!!! He was an amazing individual…always ready with his amazing smile and a hug. I met Greg working at Lewis Lumber and liked him right away! We had wonderful conversations about our faith journey and I’m so sorry that I hadn’t kept in touch with him over the years! I know that he will be deeply missed on this earth but we know that he has been made whole!!! Hallelujah!!!
I only knew Greg a few short years, but we had some great times together. We bonded instantly over cycling, classic cars and favorite Bible verses. I am truly a better man for knowing him. I know for sure he is at peace with Jesus.
Blessings and prayers of comfort to Kris and the kids.
So sorry to hear about Greg… he and his family were so much a part of my childhood in Oil City, our parents were wonderful friends! Greg was alittle older than I, he was closer in age to my older brother and sister. His dad was my band teacher, his mom was a special friend of my mom and we all grew up going to 2nd Pres church together. I have fond memories of going to dinner at their house and singing Grace together! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
John and I will miss our dear friend Greg..his laugh and bear hugs. We loved our dinners together, playing cards, cheering on our rival sports teams, and his spending time at the Woodshop. Rest in peace with the Lord at last.
John 16:221
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
I am saddened to see this news. Greg and I grew up together, attended school and church together. Childhoods in the 50’s and 60’s were magical. Sadly we grow up and lose touch. My family moved to Johnstown just prior to 9th grade. The memories from Second Presbyterian building Solomon’s Temple, many Sunday School lessons and a final farewell to Southside Junior high school having lunch at our desks and band practice. Thank you Greg for reaching out to me about 20 yrs ago to reconnect the days gone by. I will always remember you and your family..May your soul rest peacefully for eternity. 🙏🙏🙏
Greg and I grew up together on Third St in Oil City. We were in band together and also attended church together. He was in my father’s bell choir at church. I was thankful for a nice visit with Greg when he and Dave Bender came and stayed with us several years ago. I am so sorry for the loss of a fine man and friend.
Raying peace for your family.
Dear Kris and family, our deepest condolences. I am listening to Steve Wonder “You are the Sunshine of my Life” this was what I saw in the love expressed between Greg and Kris. He WILL forever be in you lives and in your hearts. May God’s peace be with you in you and guide you.
Blessings, Shalom Martha
A true friend and the greatest quizzo teammate you could find. Greg always offered kind and wise advice. His love for his family was undeniable, something those of us around him sought to emulate; he was a teacher in endless ways. Even on his bad days, he always found a way to show kindness. His influence in Williamsport will live on for many generations.
To have spent hours with Greg each week for almost 10 years is a gift I will hold for my whole life. I’ll remember plenty of trivia nights, Steelers games, car rides, and many laughs.
Heartfelt prayers for Kris, Ellen and Bennett!!! I am incredibly saddened to hear of Greg’s passing from this earth. Can’t begin to describe the impact he had on me personally, professionally and most importantly spiritually!!! I’ll fondly remember the laughter we shared…..he had the best laugh!!! One thing I know for sure is that the Heavenly Choir is sounding even better today now that he’s there!!!
Greg and I became friends as we both were math people in the WASD. One of our sons was fortunate to enjoy Greg’s teaching at Curtin MS and, as supervisor, I greatly appreciated what a wonderful job he did with the seventh graders. He always treated his students with the same kindness he afforded to the rest of us. The photo at the top of this obituary is exactly how my wife Mabel and I remember Greg – displaying that inviting smile. He was truly a wonderful man and I was privileged to know him.
Dearest Kris,
I can only speak for myself, but I know your friends here in Lawrence will cherish your friendship as long as we live. From your beautiful tribute to Greg, I wish I could have known him before his tragic illness stole his life. However, I’ll always remember when several of us met you and Greg at the arboretum for the outdoor chamber music concert, and at the end of the concert, Greg looked up in the sky and saw the rainbow before any of us did! What a guy, Kris. May you find peace also.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I remember Greg’s infectious smile, his kindness to others and his beautiful singing voice. We sadly watched his decline at the Curtin breakfasts but we were so happy he was able to join us for so long. He loved showing off his latest woodworking projects, especially the bowls. At Curtin I never remember hearing an unkind word about him from a student. He was fair and so calm with them. May all the wonderful memories you have of Greg sustain you at this difficult time.
Lifting prayers for the Keefer family and everyone who knew and loved Greg. Whenever I look at the wooden bowl he gifted me, or see someone wearing a Steelers jersey or Pirates cap, or sing along to a CD playing in my truck, or remember how he made it possible for me to play trivia at The Bullfrog Brewery while my broken leg was healing, or recall the super-hot day when he moved out of his apartment on Tucker Street, or hear the “thunk” of a spud gun, I will think of him and smile. Greg used all of his many gifts and talents to make the world a better place. It was an absolute privilege to know him. Rest in peace, my friend.
Dear Kris, Family and Friends – My heart goes out to each of you in the passing of your loving husband/Dad/Uncle/Cousin/brother/friend. I did not know Greg personally, but feel connected to you all through my friendship with Kris. Hearing Kris talk about Greg and now this beautifully written biography, I feel I know Greg as well. Please know how many are holding your family in prayer during this time of pain and grief. Greg is gone too soon from this life but the promise of eternal life assures of a joyful reunion in the future.
Hugs and hearts.
My most sincere condolences to your loving wife, Kris, and your daughter Ellen, and Son Bennett and to your extended Family! Greg – you are a true friend! As others can similarly attest, you have been my most dedicated of Friends – warm in Heart, kind in Spirit, and my goodness, we could laugh for days together, reading and laughing at Gary Larsen cartoons, whenever we visited each other. I was fortunate to live within the same neighborhood with you, Greg; we were the best of friends – as we cycled together (we had Ten Speed bikes long before becoming popular in town) and we spent our Summers together at local playgrounds, as well as spending time together at your Family’s Summer cottage in Ahrensville on the Allegheny River. We remained close friends throughout our College years and, thankfully, especially after we retired from our long careers. May you rest in Peace, Greg – until we meet again!
Dave Bender (Newport RI)
dbender23@cox.net
Dear Kristin, Bennett, Ellen, and family,
Christine is one of my dearest friends. She spoke often and lovingly of all of you. Our early morning text group continues to pray for you. And we smile at the thought of Greg being surprised by Christine gteeting him at the gate.
May you take comfort in knowing Greg is whole again. May God hold you all tightly and bring you to a place of peace after this difficult journey.
We were very saddened when we learned of the terrible disease that Greg had. I was glad that we had a few evenings together, the trip to Penn, and the face time call. New memories stacked on an album of them from college and beyond. Watching the downward slide has ended. He, at last, is at peace and restored to something even better than the marvelous person we knew and loved. We grieve with you, Kristin, for his loss, as we have been since we became aware of the path that lay before you both since the diagnosis. I am glad that his last years were with his granddaughter and commend you for the wisdom that you had in making the move to Kansas. Faith allows us all to look ahead to a glorious reunion when we each answer the call to depart this planet.We will be tuned in on Saturday. Thanks for the “wires”. Pease keep in touch.
Please know that you have my deepest sympathy for the loss of Greg. He was a kind and thoughtful man. I hope you are comforted by your many happy memories. I miss seeing your Steeler’s flag on game day. May you rest in Peace, Greg.
We here at the Community Theatre League in Williamsport PA were saddened to learn of Greg’s passing. His smile and kindness were extended to everyone connected with a show regardless if you had a lead role, an ensemble role, or worked backstage. We were fortunate to have had Greg share his talents with us. Cherish your memories for they will help comfort you.
I have fond memories of playing trombone in the band next to Greg Keefer back in the late 1960s. The kind words people are saying about him as an adult friend, teacher, and family member come as no surprise. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
Keefer family Linda and I are very sorry to hear that your beloved Greg has departed this earth but for sure we know that heaven gets another Angel. It has been too many years but our time in Williamsport is most memorable because of Greg. Truly and genuinely a caring and thoughtful person. May your love and experiences ease your loss. God’s eternal blessing. RIP my friend.
Skip Murray
I thought with Greg for over 30 years at Curtin Middle School. We became great friends, he had only been in Williamsport for a few weeks when my wife Kathi and I Had him to dinner at my new home. This was Before we had kids or he was married. We so much enjoyed his company, we were there for his marriage ceremony and many milestones in his life. He invited me to a Tres Dies Weekend which was an incredible religious experience. His loss and his bravery in facing his ailment was an inspiration to all of his friends. May you rest in peace Greg
It has been a long while since I have seen Greg. Sadly, I did not stay in touch. I only recently learned of his passing through our mutual friends, Fran and Sharon Nesta. I know Greg from our time together at Clarion. I remember fondly the games of “killer badminton” at his summer cottage in Oil City. Greg (along with Fran Nesta) was a part of one of my favorite college memories – our spring break trip to Florida. It was a time of pure debochery, if that’s what you want to call hanging at Disney World. Greg and I shared the love of the pun. When teaching, I used much of his ‘material’ in my own classroom. Other condolences have referenced Greg’s generosity. It is so true. During a time when I was struggling at a traveling sales job, Greg and Kristin afforded me their couch as a crash over site in Williamsport. Kristin, I want you to know how deeply I appreciated that. The picture of Greg on this memorial is quintesentially him. That smile never changed. God bless you and keep you, Greg.
Jim Luksik