
Ellis “Wayne” Keen 78, beloved father and grandfather, passed away on March 13, 2024. He was preceded in death by wife Frances Keen, his parents, Margerat and Raymond Keen, his brother, Page Keen, and his nephew Jeff Keen. He is survived by one brother Kenny Keen, three sons, Kenneth Ray Valentino, Jr. (Margaret – who served as a second daughter during his fight with Alzheimer’s disease), Vince Valentino, Matthew Keen (Melissa), one daughter, Jessica H. Smith (Gene), six grandchildren (Kasey, Nick, Marissa, Keenan, Kaleigh, and Alexander) and four great grandchildren (Bryson, Dionna, Shelby, and Lainey), along with one niece (Lisa Keen) and one nephew (Shawn Markham). Following graduation from high school, he enlisted in the Navy, beginning a long and fulfilling career in telecommunications.
Wayne enjoyed the coast. During his younger years, he spent his free time with family on the Chesapeake Bay and surrounding waterways, having fishing tournaments with his brothers, waterskiing with his wife Frances, and enjoying family meals with his mother, brothers, children, and extended family. He enjoyed many activities with his beloved son Matthew, such as computer programing and Boy Scouts, where he served as in various leadership capacities. Both Wayne and his wife were talented photographers, capturing many cherished memories on film. He also enjoyed music, playing various instruments such as the guitar, banjo, and mandolin. Periodically playing in Irish Pubs. He passed down a love for travel to his children and was an avid reader.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date, for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, honoring his lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
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Judith Puryear (Harris)
I am so very sorry to hear of his death. It sounds as if Ellis had a full life with his family, and enjoyed many different interests... Judith Puryear Harris
Ginna Buchanan (Leuenberger)
My sympathies go out to his family. I'm sure he will be sorely missed. But it is good to hear he had such diverse interests that he perused thought out his life.