James (Jim) Wayne Keen, 71, died January 15, 2010, in Pryor, OK. Jim was born October 18, 1938 in Kansas City, MO, to Leon and Darthula Frost Keen. On October 25, 1963, Jim and Janice Ivey were united in marriage in Kansas City, MO. Jim attended Liberty, MO, schools and was a graduate of the high school class of 1956. He enjoyed life-long friendships with his class. He attended Kemper Military Jr. College and the University of Missouri. He was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity
Jim had a special gift of communicating creatively with people. He was often asked to speak before organizations, seminars, and to compose and present eulogies for others. He was a member of the Pleasant View Baptist Church and a charter member of the Cowboy Gathering Church. Jim worked in the explosive industry for 40 years, retiring as Sales Manager in 2005 from Slurry Explosives Corporation. He served as president of the OZARK Chapter of International Society of Explosive Engineers during his years in the explosive industry. He was active in many aspects of the Quarter Horse business and produced several horses that competed and won on the national level. He was a member of the Senior Pro Rodeo Association, Pryor 4-Way Rodeo Association, president of the NE OK Performance Horse Breeders Association for 11 years, and the America Quarter Horse Association. As an active member of rodeo production in Pryor, he watched it grow into winning awards as Rodeo of the Year for 10 years. He won the 1979 Mayes County Championship for team roping and also won the 1993 Amateur National Champion team roping event. Without hesitation, he gladly donated his time and business experience to help his community and church.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice; daughter, Jamie Keen Dubois; and father, Leon Keen. He is survived by two sons, Jeffrey Leon (Kellie) Keen of Westville, OK and Jonathan Patrick (Lori) Keen of Pryor, OK; five grandchildren: Tyler, Chelsea, Todd, Taylor and Jaycee. He is also survived by his mother, Darthula Keen, Belton, MO; sister, Frankie Jones, Raymore, MO; many cousins, nieces and nephews. Jim held a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and enjoyed time spent with them. Jim had a wonderful fun, witty and entertaining personality that his family and friends will always remember. Jim will be deeply missed.
