James Franklin Keel, Jr.

Jim was  born in Whitefish, Wisconsin to parents Gladys (Meekum) Keel and James F Keel, sr. Jim and his family moved to California when he was just a boy. The move proved fortuitous for Jim, as that is where he met the love of his life, Shirley Palmer. From the age of 17 until his death, Jim and Shirley were inseparable. Thus leading to the births of their sons Kip and Kolby. Jim enlisted in the Army Air Corp at 18, did his hitch and upon his discharge worked for various Ford dealers around the state. Due to his love of cars, Jim learned all aspects of the business, eventually owning his own Lincoln Mercury dealership in Santa Monica, California. Over the years, Jim enjoyed many hunting and fishing adventures in California, Alaska, Colorado, Montana, even several trips to Africa. As well as his love of cars, hunting and fishing, Jim also loved telling tales of his past escapades. Now whether the stories were true or not, only Jim really knew. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, sister Patti Keel, son Kolby Keel and granddaughter Jordan Brown. He is survived by Shirley, his beloved wife of 75 years. His son Kip (Ethyl) Keel, grandson Kash (Jessica) Keel and granddaughters Nellie Thorngate and Kristina Belum. Great grandkids Elise and Kat Keel, Trevor, Tyler, Joey and Jessica Belum, and little Lilly Barnes. Last but never least, Jim is survived by his good friend, hunting and fishing partner and cohort of telling tales- Gary Tavernetti. At Jim’s request, there will be no services.