Richard (Dick) Keen

Richard (Dick) Keen, age 87, of Storm Lake, Iowa died December 8, 2021 at Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake. Private family services will be held at a later date. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements. Dick was born on a farm in Renwick, Iowa on April 4, 1934 to Martin & Dagny Keen. He was the youngest of five children and he was very proud of his Norwegian heritage. He attended elementary school in Thor, Iowa and graduated from Eagle Grove High School in 1952. On June 27, 1954, Dick married the love of his life, Beverly Severson, in Thor, Iowa. They were blessed with five children, 2 sons and 3 daughters. They lived in Humboldt, Iowa until 1964 when Dick joined the Iowa Department of Transportation as a weight officer. He transferred to West Union, Iowa for two years and was promoted to sergeant at which time he and his family moved to Storm Lake, Iowa where he lived for the remainder of his life. At the time of his retirement from the DOT after 32 years, Dick was an investigator in the motor vehicle division. Dick and Bev were members of Saint Mark’s Lutheran Church since 1966. Dick was very active in his church and community serving on many boards and committees. He served as a project coordinator for several Habitat for Humanity homes in Storm Lake. He was involved in the Meals on Wheels program and was also a 50+ year Mason. He also enjoyed bowling in league for many years. Dick was an avid woodworker and a self-taught craftsman and made many beautiful pieces for family and friends. He took pride in completely restoring his beloved Buick Wildcat convertible so he could give rides to his many grandchildren. Dick is survived by his wife, Beverly; sons: Daniel Keen (Evelyn); Paul Keen (Shawn) daughters: Brenda Otto (Ed), Jennifer Thompson, and Sarah Post (Geoff). He was blessed with 15 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, two sisters and many nieces and nephews. Dick had friends in all realms of life, including many that he met through his work. Dick’s life legacy is his extended family of forty-eight. He often said, “I am not a wealthy man, but I am the richest man in the world.” He was so loved and will be missed by many.

Richard (Dick) Keen

April 4, 1934 - December 8, 2021