Francis ‘Butch’ Keni

Butch was born July 18, 1943, in Flint, MI to Orvo and Gloria (LaFreniere) Keni and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1961. He was united in marriage to Carol Henson on October 14, 1977, in Marquette. After graduation, Butch entered the US Army during the Vietnam War, serving from June 1961 to January 1964.

Following service to his country, not only did Butch begin his 30-year career in mining work, but also helped his parents in the kitchen of the old Main Drift Restaurant in Negaunee. Butch worked for Cleveland Cliffs at the Tracy Mine, Republic Mine, and the Tilden Mine. He retired as a plant repairman. Butch also worked a 6-year stint at Robins Flooring Mill during the many strikes of the union.

There are many fond memories of Butch with his children playing guitar at their Bass Lake house, which Butch helped his dad originally build as a family camp and renovated into a home for him, his two youngest children, and his loving wife. For many years, his family enjoyed the lake house, whether it was weekend getaways for his immediate family or large gatherings with his extended family and friends. Although the 4th of July was not Butch’s favorite holiday for many reasons, he cherished it because it brought all of us–his kids, grandkids, sister, nieces, and nephews–together for the weekend with him and his wife.

Butch was very talented in woodworking; in his later years, he focused on scrolling. Butch was a man of few words; he could quiet a room full of people with just one word. Yet, he was also witty, caring, selfless, and incredibly kind to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Surviving are his children, Jarrod (Brenda) Keni, Jenn Keni, Tina (Keith Hegman), Scott Merrills, Kathy Merrills, and Patrick (Sarah Dugan) Merrills. Grandsons: Robert Hegman (children Susanna & Paxton), Mathew Hegman (son Cooper), Alan Merrills (daughter, Teagan), Jay Keni, Angel Rivera, Brad Merrills (daughter Laynee), Jason Merrills. granddaughters, Kayla Cote (children Jackson, Ariah, Lyric, & Nova), Tiffani Childs (children William & Aubree), Ashley Childs (children Easton, & Milah). Butch is also survived by his loving sister, Sheryl Stiemke, and his nephews Brett & Chris (Sharon) Tracy.

He was preceded in death by his wife Carol Keni in 2010; his parents; in-laws, Kate and Lyman Henson; son, Donald Merrills, great-granddaughter Abbigail Merrills, and special nephews, Sean (Ronald) Tracy and Patrick Tracy.

Butch’s role as a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle has created a profound impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him. The sentiment surrounding the concept of a blended family is both meaningful and compelling. As the adage states, “Blood establishes familial relationships, while love cultivates the essence of family.”

A private celebration of life with his loving family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider donation in Butch’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Butch’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.