Surrounded by the love of family at home, Dr. Thomas Richard Keenan passed peacefully from this life on January 1, 2025, at the age of 60. Tom was the loving husband and best friend of Kathleen Quigley-Keenan and cherished father of Holly Keenan. Beloved son of Priscilla Loomis Keenan (nee Prince) and the late Thomas Richard Keenan Sr. He will be fondly remembered by his brother Robert (Tammy) and Kathy’s family Keith (MaryAnne) Quigley, Betty Stolk-Glabb (Marty), Benjamin (Kate) Quigley, Patricia Quigley, and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents-in-law Sylvia and Gordon Quigley.
Tom started to pursue his passion for psychology at Brock University, where he met Kathy. After graduating with an Honours B.A., he earned an M.A. and then PhD from the University of Toronto – Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. He quickly became a Lecturer at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand, where he enjoyed collaborating with colleagues on a wide range of psychological topics, gaining the attention of Sage Publishers (U.K.) who asked him to write An Introduction to Child Psychology, soon to be in its 4th edition. Shortly after becoming a father, Tom accepted a job offer from Niagara College, allowing him, Kathy and Holly to move back to Canada to be close to family.
Tom loved to entertain – whether presenting funny PowerPoints to his students, cooking for family and friends, or playing guitar with his bands Not Going Quietly and The Throwbacks. He will be remembered for his whimsical sense of humour, his tremendous memory for history and musical trivia, and his love of good food, coffee, and conversation.
Tom appreciated the love and support extended by many friends, neighbours, colleagues, and family. Special thanks to Dr. Linda Lee for giving Tom bonus time, the Paramed Home Care Team (especially Colleen), and Reverend Jacob Lee.
There will be a private service at First Presbyterian Church, North Pelham. Tom's wife Kathy, daughter Holly, mother Priscilla, brother Bob, and best buddy Mike Aitken invite friends, family, and all who knew Dr. Tom to celebrate his life March 8th, 1-4 p.m. at the St. Catharines Armenian Community Centre, 156 Martindale Rd.. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Tom’s memory may contribute to the Walker Family Cancer Centre, The Humane Society, or First Presbyterian Church, North Pelham, 602 Metler Rd, Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0.