Hank Lee Keyes

Hank Lee Keyes of Doylestown, Ohio passed away suddenly on July 10, 2025. He was a man who lived fully, loved his family deeply, and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on May 25, 1951, to Beecher and Maezelle Keyes, Hank married the love of his life, Judi, at an early age and together, they built the foundation for a life marked by hard work, integrity, and purpose. Their remarkable love story spanned 55 years of marriage, a testament to the depth of their devotion to one another.

Hank was a carpenter’s apprentice early in his career and one of his most favorite jobs to talk about from that time was the Y Bridge in Akron, Ohio. He ultimately started Keyes Company, a successful excavation company that he ran until retirement in his early 50s. Throughout his working years, he also served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Rittman II squad. In retirement, he still liked to “piddle” with his backhoe around the home that he and Judi built in Doylestown, Ohio along with leather work, a trade in which he quickly gained expertise.

Spending time with his family was his favorite pastime and he played as hard as he worked, having gone sky diving with his daughter, Jennifer, just a few weeks before his death.

His passion for horses and motorcycles ran deep, riding thousands of miles on both including a 7,000+ mile motorcycle ride he and Judi took out west to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. He marched to the beat of his own drum, was fiercely independent, endlessly loyal, and unapologetically himself. He had a soft spot for a nice cup of black coffee, an oatmeal cream pie for breakfast, good conversation, and his dog, Pepper. He was a man who found joy in everyday life.

A proud and dedicated Freemason, Hank rose to serve as WM for Seville Lodge #74 and the Ohio State Chaplain, always grounding his leadership in faith and service. He loved Jesus, and he loved his family with every fiber of his being. He never met a stranger and whether it was a handshake, a story, or a smile, he made everyone feel like family.

A king among men, strong, humble, and full of heart. Hank was a true original. He will be forever loved, always missed, and never forgotten by those lucky enough to have shared in his remarkable journey. Hank’s legacy of love and strength will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Hank is survived by his three cherished and favorite daughters: Kristy (Robert) Knupp, Kelly (Brian) Linkowski, and Jennifer Keyes; his unofficially adopted son from Mexico, Jose Eligio Garza, and his family; his adored (and spoiled!) grandchildren: Liam (Ana) Linkowski, Jesse (Anya) Ruther, Troy Linkowski, Cassidy Ruther, Fletcher Knupp, Charlie Knupp, and Elizabeth Knupp; and his three great-granddaughters: Lailah, Gwenyth, and Savannah. He is also survived by his sisters Jean Froud and Clara Mae (Jerry) Donovan, sisters-in-law Beverly (Dave) Bailey, Debbie Keen and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Beecher and Maezelle Keyes, his sister, Eva Lou Curtis, and his wife, Judith Diane Keyes.

A celebration of life will be held on August 23, 2025 – more details will be shared closer to the date.

In lieu of flowers please perform an act of kindness in Hank's memory, as he believed in lifting others up wherever he went. You can also raise a “little beer” toast to him next time you are out - IYKYK!

Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186.