Nelson H. Keener

Nelson H. Keener, 67, of Lancaster, PA, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 19, 2016. A native of East Donegal Township, Nelson was born in Lancaster on May 1, 1948. He was the son of the late Walter Longenecker Keener and the late Martha Miller Hernley Keener. He was married 47 years to Jean Reist Keener, also of Lancaster. After graduating from Liberty University in 1976, Nelson developed a 25-year career as a communications executive for national ministries and non-profit organizations. This included seven years as a youth pastor, eight years as the personal executive aide to the late Rev. Jerry Falwell, eight years as the Vice President of Communications for Prison Fellowship and personal aide to the late Charles Colson, and two years as Vice President of Publishing for Word Publishing. In 1997, Nelson returned to Lancaster where he enjoyed a second career in real estate, most recently as an associate at Puffer Morris. Nelson was a man of grace and integrity. While rooted in his strong Mennonite heritage and upbringing, Nelson continued a vibrant faith journey throughout his lifetime. He was an active member of Saint James Episcopal Church since 1997 where he served as a member of the Endowment Board, finance committee, the Vestry, and in 2002, as Senior Warden. In addition to his church life, Nelson took great pride in the City of Lancaster, supporting local businesses and service organizations. He loved spending time with his family and was highly regarded for his easy-going, affable personality. Nelson was known for his ability to connect with people across many different backgrounds and perspectives. In addition to his wife Jeannie, he is survived by a daughter: Dana, married to Allen Mast, Decatur, GA; a son: Wesley, married to Katherine Wallace, Durham, NC; a granddaughter, Esther Grace Keener Mast; two sisters: Audrey, married to James Hilsher, Winnipeg, Ontario; Marilyn, married to Fred Baldwin, Carlisle; three brothers: Gerald, married to Donna Zehr, Lancaster; Lamar, married to Theresa Grassel, El Cajon, CA; Arlen, married to Kathleen Boll, Columbia. In addition to his parents, Nelson was preceded in death by two sisters: Charlene and Velma, wife of Roy Scholl. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, April 25, 2016, at Saint James Episcopal Church, 119 N. Duke St, Lancaster at 11:00 AM. Family will receive guests beginning at 10:00 AM. A viewing will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2016 at Groffs Family Funeral Home, 528 Orange St, Lancaster from 4:00-6:00 PM. A private family interment ceremony will take place at Saint James Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Saint James Episcopal Church. Arrangements by Groffs Family Funeral Services.