Vincent Louis Keilen

On Christmas morning our beloved Father and Grandfather was called to join his wife, Madeline, and daughter, Marlene, in the loving arms of Christ. Born on the family farm in Westphalia to Joseph and Mary Keilen, Vince was the 8th of 11 children. It was there that he began his 100-year journey and where the values he carried throughout life were fostered. On June 9, 1938 he married Madeline Cook, and for 67 years they were the picture of faith and family. A lifelong farmer, Vince owned Keilen Farms in Lansing, and continued to help his sons with the harvest long after retirement. Vince enjoyed spending time with his family, wintering in Arizona and square dancing. He and Madeline were long-time members of The Shooting Stars Square Dance Club. In addition to his wife Madeline and daughter Marlene, Vince was preceded in death by grandson, Brad Keilen; great-grandson, Jacob Pio Keilen; and siblings, Walter, Dorothy Bower, Verena Huggett, Sister Francis Keilen, Robert, Mildred LaRowe, Reverend Ernest Keilen, Herbert, and Francis. Left to cherish his memory are sons, William (Betsy) of Arizona, Doug (Marcia) of Colorado, Jack (Mary Ann), Bruce (Ann), and Duane all of Lansing; and daughter, Terrie (Jim) Bunn of Dewitt. Vince also leaves behind 18 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; his sister, Anita Fitzpatrick; and many nieces and nephews. At age 99, Vince moved to Addie's Acres in Dewitt where Theresa and Rick Alvarado, along with their wonderful staff, cared for him with love, dignity, and respect. We will be forever grateful to them. Whether it was hard work at the farm, a family gathering, a game of Euchre, or a Christmas Eve at Grandpa and Grandma's, we are still left with special memories of a truly remarkable man - a man with a quick smile and a generous heart. Vince lived 100 years, and his was truly a life well lived! Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 30, 2016 at 11:00 am at the Church of the Resurrection, 1505 E. Michigan, Lansing, with Father Steve Mattson officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday at the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, Lansing, from 1-3 and 5-7:30 pm, with a scripture service at 6:30 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Resurrection School. Arrangements are being handled by the Tiffany Funeral Home. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com