Obituary of Frank Wescoat Keebler, Jr.

Frank Wescoat Keebler, Jr., 94, formerly of Bolivar Avenue in Troy and a resident of Shaker Pointe, peacefully entered into eternal life on  December  20,2018.

Frank was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 51 years when she passed away, Audrey M. Keebler, with whom he enjoyed dancing, playing golf and bridge, travelling, and spending time with friends and family.  A dedicated father, Frank’s children Tracey (Justin) Carangelo of Nolensville, TN, Jay Keebler of Troy and Wes (Jolene) Keebler of Coeur d’Alene, ID, will remember him for the love he gave them, the laughter he shared with them, and the lessons he taught them throughout their lives.  Frank also shared his gifts of love and laugher with his cherished granddaughters, Lindsay Keebler of Santa Barbara, CA and Shea Keebler Carangelo of Nolensville, TN, both of whom will miss him deeply.  In addition to his children and granddaughters, Frank is survived by 3 sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

Born in Bayonne, NJ, Frank was the son of the late Frank W. and Bernidene Stillwell Keebler, Sr. After graduating from military college prep school, Admiral Farragut Academy, in Pine Beach, NJ, Frank went on to earn a BS in Marine Engineering from Kings Point (US Merchant Marine Academy) in preparation for his next 18 months at sea aboard Liberty Ships, where he helped carry ammunition and supplies to troops in many theaters during WWII.  Upon his return, Frank entered RPI in Troy, NY at which time he met and married Audrey.   Three and ½ years into his degree, however, Frank’s education was interrupted so that he could again serve his country for the next two years; this time as a U.S. Naval Officer in the Korean War aboard the U.S.S Holder, a Navy destroyer.  Following his service, Frank worked for 3 years at G.E. Schenectady’s Steam Turbine plant.  He then returned to RPI to complete his fourteen-year quest of earning a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, which he employed during his 34-year career as an engineer in G.E.’s M.A.O Navy Nuclear Program. During this time, Frank continued his military career with the Troy Naval Reserves until he retired from the U.S. Navy with the rank of Commander.  Proud of his country, Frank remained a patriot throughout his life as a member of the Retired Military Officers Association, Kings Point Alumni Association, the American Legion, and supporter of Project Liberty Ship, Inc.

Frank retired from G.E. in 1988 and quickly adapted to his life as a retiree, enjoying travel throughout the U.S. and abroad with Audrey, and spending his days on the golf course with friends and family at the Troy Country Club, where he scored a hole-in-one on the 15^th hole.  In addition, Frank continued with his longstanding love of playing judo at the Troy Judo Club, where he earned his 3^rd degree black belt at age 75. Frank remained active with family and friends throughout the remainder of his life, making sure to enjoy every moment.

Although quiet, Frank’s warm heart and quick dry sense of humor made him friends wherever he went, including his most recent home, Shaker Point.  The Keebler family would like to extend its thanks to the staff and residents at Shaker Point who made Frank’s last years wonderfully happy.  They would also like to extend its greatest gratitude to Nicole Parslow and her team, who gave their undying dedication, care, and love to Frank during his last months of life.  It was Nicole and her team who put a smile on Frank’s face in even the most trying times and brought him peace.  For that, the Keebler family will be forever grateful.

Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 416 Third Street, Troy, NY 12180 and will be followed by Military Honors.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the Morris-Stebbins-Miner & Sanvidge Funeral Home, 312 Hoosick Street, Troy, NY 12180 on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Those desiring, may make memorial contributions to Project Liberty Ship, Inc., P.O. Box 25846 Highlandtown Station, Baltimore, MD 21224 or on-line at

https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E344393&id=3

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