Obituary of Jeffery Frederick Keehl

After a lengthy illness, Jeff is now at peace and in the presence of the Lord. He passed away at the Niagara Falls Hospital, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the age of 86. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Marian. A loving and caring father of David (Kendra) and Lori (Rob). A cherished Papa of Brandon, Nicole (Pat), Eric (Ellie), Megan and Jaime. Proud great-grandfather of Violet. Brother to Janis (Rob) and brother-in-law of Bernice (Mel), Ron (Nancy), Leonard, and Linda. Jeff will also be remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Jeff was a lifelong resident of St. Catharines whose life was marked by quiet devotion, faithful service, and compassion. He dedicated over 30 years to the St. Lawrence Seaway before retiring in 1992, after which he found great purpose in serving others as a pastoral visitor, bringing comfort and prayer to countless patients in local hospitals. His faith remained a guiding force, evident in his role as an elder at Brockview Bible Chapel and in his involvement with the Boys Brigade Club. Whether he was driving children to church programs or lending a helping hand wherever it was needed, Jeff’s retirement years were anything but inactive. Throughout his life, he found great joy in bowling and golfing, which were his favourite sports to play and in which he often competed in tournaments. Boating, fishing and relaxing at his parent's cottage in Victoria Harbour during the summer, and escaping the chill of winter with sunny months in Florida, were cherished traditions where family memories were made each year. Though often quiet, Jeff’s young at heart sense of humour and kind-hearted nature made him a cherished presence amongst his family and friends.

Thank you to the medical teams in the Niagara Health System (St. Catharines and Niagara Falls). A special thank you to the Rainbow and Trillium Units at the Niagara Falls Hospital, who took excellent care of Jeff over the past 7 months. Our family would also like to express our gratitude to our church family at Brockview Bible Chapel and many others, for their prayers, hospital visits and support. In accordance with Jeff’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and arrangements are entrusted with Essentials Cremation and Burial Services (905-354-2133). A memorial service will be held at 12pm on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Brockview Bible Chapel, 326 Pelham Rd, St. Catharines, ON. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jeff can be given to Agape Valley or to Everyday Publications Inc. Online condolences can be shared on Jeff’s tribute page found at EssentialsNiagara.com.