Richard E. 'Dick' Keating

East Palestine, OH-June 21, 2011-Richard E. "Dick" Keating, 84, of 1286 Howell Rd. died at 9:55 a.m. Tuesday at Hospice House following a lengthy illness.

Mr. Keating was born September 14, 1926 in Poland, a son of Melvin "Pops" and Margaret Reesh Keating and had lived in this area all of his life.

Dick was an entrepreneur his whole life. His occupation included owner operator of the Rollerena for many years. He was an electrician and building contractor as well as a land developer which included the Fox Wood Chase Development. He also owned two Arby's franchises and a laundromat. He loved sky diving and had logged over 100 jumps. He was a 5th degree black belt in karate. Dick was involved with drag racing and at one time built a helicopter. He built several storage space centers.

He was an avid musician and played in an orchestra in high school. His love for music carried over to his service in the US Army during World War II where he was a solo trumpeter for General Richardson.

He was a member and the youngest Past Master of East Palestine Lodge #417 F & A M. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason Scottish Rite.

He is survived by his wife the former Penny Judy, whom he married December 5, 1983, four daughters, Sherry (Gary) Rodgers of Ellsworth, Melody (Tom) Evans of East Palestine, Tammy McKay of Ellsworth and Holly Keating of Columbus; a son, Larry (Gerry) Keating of East Palestine; a step daughter, Lori (George) Guy of East Palestine; a sister, Shirley (Joe) Prosnick of West Palm, FL; ten grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

His first wife, Thelma Keating is deceased.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 24, 2011 at the Van Dyke-Swaney-Rettig Funeral Home, East Palestine with Mr. Robert Helbeck, Minister officiating. Burial will follow in Columbiana Cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Friends may call from 6-9 pm Thursday where Masonic services will be held at 9 p.m. at the funeral home.

A special thanks to Russell Hoon and the Salem Visiting Nurses, especially Tracy, for all of their help and support.

Material tributes may be made to Angels for Animals c/o 4750 W. South Range Rd. Canfield, OH 44406.