Clarence “Rick” Keesee, age 81 of Wayland, died Wednesday, Sept. 24.
Rick’s love for his family knew no bounds; he loved hosting fish fries, complete with all the fixings, for family and friends. His refrigerator was always stocked with a sausage, cheese, crackers, nuts, and ice-cold Pepsi, which he generously offered to anyone who visited.
Rick had a passion for hunting, fishing, and metal detecting, which he enthusiastically pursued with his family and closest friends. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, participating in activities such as rolling down the front hill in a garden cart, sledding, ice skating, camping, and hayrides.
One of his most cherished pastimes was allowing his grandchildren to draw on his back with markers; unfortunately, sometimes they were permanent. Rick deeply valued his regular conversations with his sisters and Uncle Gary, during which they shared stories of days gone by and made plans for future excursions north.
Rick is survived by his children Jeff (Tracy) Keesee, Renee (Randy) Weatherwax, Vicki (Warren) Genther, Ricky (Xia) Keesee; grandchildren Joshua Keesee, Holly Keesee, Michael Dressler, Tad Dressler, Jessica (Peter) Bos, Brittani Dressler, Danielle (Nick) Pomeroy, Jacquelyn (Joe) Johnson, Breanna (Will) Ozeranic, Cade Hupp, Elijah Hupp, Forrest Keesee, Cole (Billie) Weatherwax, Dallas and Brody Genther; great-grandchildren Corbin Weatherwax, Rylee and Olivia Bos, Damion and Bentlie Wolters, Hannah, Haylee, and Jacob Johnson, Camden and Ayla Pomeroy, Zavier, Avianna, and Paxton Ozeranic; sisters Joan Fink, Joy (Gary) Vandermeer, Nancy (Rick) Brown, Annette Smith; sisters- and brothers-in-laws Marie (Bob) Bruinslot, Richard (Gay) Monroe, Frank (Sam) Monroe, Pauline (Dave) Cunigan, Adele Monroe; and special neighbors, the Ignatoski family.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine Keesee; parents Clarence and Helen Keesee; and nephew, Richard Monroe.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home – Dorr Chapel, 4330 18th Ave.
