Josephine Eloise Keelen

Josephine Eloise Keelen, 90, of Terre Haute, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2015, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 27, 1924, in Vermillion County, to Louis and Mary (Pemberton) Malanowski. She married Omer J. Keelen on December 25, 1942 and they were married for 56 years.

Josephine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers, Oddie Malanowski, Robert Malanowski, and William Malanowski.

She is survived by her children: Gene Keelen and wife Kathleen of Terre Haute; Starla Pikul and husband Tom of Tomball, TX; Steve Keelen and wife Donna of Noblesville; Karen Keelen and Jim Cundiff of Terre Haute; and Ragini Scheid and husband Rob of Terre Haute; grandchildren: Amy Nicolet, Coeur d’ Alene Stone, Raylene Sisneros, Kevin Keelen, Robert Paitson, Rachel Scheid, Marissa Scheid, and Kristen Scheid; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Rose Greenwood; a brother, John “Jack” Malanowski and wife, Marge; and several nieces and nephews.

Josephine graduated from Clinton High School. She was an avid Shirley Temple collector. She was also a Larry Bird fan. She was a member of the Hello Dollers Doll Club. Josephine was also a member of Spring Creek Community Church.

Visitation will be held from 10 to noon on Saturday, August 15 at Mattox-Wood Funeral Home. Services will be held at noon on Saturday, at the funeral home, with Jack Malanowski officiating. Josephine will be laid to rest next to her husband in Roselawn Memorial Park. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with her family at www.mattoxwood.com