Francis "Bud" Keetley

Francis "Bud" Keetley, age 87 of Hastings, died peacefully on Sunday afternoon, December 6, 2020, at Regina Medical Center in Hastings. Francis Raymond, the son of Horace and Eleanora (Siebenaler) Keetley, was born on September 3, 1933, in Hastings. Following his graduation from Hastings High School with the class of 1951, Bud enlisted in the United States Air Force and served sixteen years prior to being Honorably Discharged. On October 17, 1953, Bud was united in marriage to BettyJean Bruhn in Columbia Heights, and she later preceded him in death on June 25, 2010. Bud was a longtime Chief Engineer and retired as Director of Energy Management where he was recognized for employing innovative solutions. Bud enjoyed the many weekly family gatherings of playing volleyball and lawn darts at their house, and always took the time to teach others how to repair just about anything. He was a member of the Eagle's Club and American Legion both in Hastings, and was also a dedicated member of the Hastings Senior Center where he contributed his expertise in designing its current location and enjoyed participating in many card games. Bud had a passion for technology advancement throughout his life, and most recently enjoyed 3D printing and laser cutting. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, BettyJean Keetley; siblings, Kenneth Keetley and Betty Lou Halpus; sons-in-law, Aaron O'Dell and Mitch Anderson; and by his grandson, Joel Anderson. Bud is survived by his children, Patricia Anderson, Kathy (Jim) Loyas, Pete (Kim) Keetley, Betty (Stephen) Smothers, and Merry O'Dell; nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren; sisters, Helen Okeson and Florence Moitzheim; and by many other relatives and friends. Private family funeral services will be held at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings, with Gordon Gathright officiating. Interment with Military Honors provided by the VFW Lyle Russell Post 1210 will follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.