Charles Bernard Keene was born November 21, 1935, to Lloyd “Jack” Keene and Eleanor (Ison) Keene in Huron, South Dakota. He moved with his parents to a farm near Moneta, Iowa in 1943 and received his education there, graduating from Moneta High School in 1953.
Charles was united in marriage to Dovia Real in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. To this union two children were born: Martha Sue and David. In October 1963, Dovia lost her life as a result of a farming accident.
Charles met Trix Linder at a farm sale that was being held for her late husband who had passed away in October 1963 as well. Trix had two children: Valerie and Scott.
On February 28, 1964, Charles and Trix were married, and began their life together with two girls, four and three years old and two boys, both two years old. Their family increased with the arrival of a daughter, Vonda and a son, Richard. They raised their family on a farm south of Hartley, Iowa. Charles and Trix celebrated 60 years of marriage on February 28, 2024.
On September 9, 2024, Charles passed from this life at the age of 88. Preceding him in death were his first wife, Dovia; his parents, Jack and Eleanor Keene; his son, Scott Linder and his wife, Marsha.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Trix; children: Sue (Ben) Dieken, Val (Dan) Moermond, David (Kris) Keene, Vonda (Vern) Salyer and Richard (Kelly) Keene; 13 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.
A Private Family Graveside Service was held September 16 at Pleasant View Cemetery, Hartley, Iowa.
Pallbearers were Chad Keene, Kenny Linder, Brent Keene, David Rogers, Alex Salyer and Jake Moermond.
Following the Committal service, a Gathering of Family and Friends was held at Hartley Community Center.
Sanborn and Hartley Funeral Homes in charge of arrangements.