Don Keester

Don was born on November 4, 1945, in Hobart, Oklahoma, to Donald Keester and Ima Jeanne (Smith) Keester. He graduated from Norman High School in 1964 and went on to earn both his BBA and MBA from the University of Central Oklahoma (formerly Central State University), later completing additional studies at Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma City.

After being drafted, Don served in the United States Air Force and completed a tour in Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Oklahoma, where he worked at Tinker Air Force Base while finishing his education. His distinguished career as a contract negotiator took him across the country, from Washington State to Massachusetts, and from Florida to New Mexico, Ohio, Indiana, and Texas. He contributed to major projects, including air base housing, missile systems, parts of the reentry launch system for the first space shuttle, and several power plants. He was proud of his work and received numerous awards for his exceptional negotiating skills, both in government and private industry. Don loved what he was doing and only retired when his health began to decline. He was also a proud member of the DAV and the VFW.

In the summer of 1971, Don met the love of his life, Pamela Olin. They were married on January 15, 1972, at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, and recently celebrated over 53 wonderful years of marriage. Don and Pam moved to Chickasha in 2019, drawn by the small-town feel and the opportunity to be closer to their children.

Don was an outgoing, kindhearted man who never met a stranger. He deeply loved his family and found joy in life’s simple pleasures, listening to hard rock music (especially The Rolling Stones and The Doors), cheering for OU football, and spending time with his wife, children, and many beloved pets, especially his dog Bruno, who was by his side during the early stages of his health challenges, many of which were due to exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam. He faced these challenges with courage and was grateful for the devoted care of his family, particularly the tireless support of Karen and David. Karen often stayed up at night with Don so her mother could rest, while David helped on weekends to give his mom and sister a break. Don and David enjoyed watching sports together, frequently rooting for opposing teams.

Don was raised United Methodist. Although he wasn’t particularly religious, he loved the Lord and lived his life accordingly.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pam; his daughter Karen and son David, both of Chickasha; six nieces; and two nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his cherished sister, Wanda Keester Rinderer, who passed away in June 2024.

Don will be remembered as an honest, friendly man who loved his family, worked hard, and enjoyed life.