Lawrence Peter Keen

June 15, 1941 – January 9, 2026

L. Peter Keen, 84, of Seymour, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, surrounded by his loving family.  Known for his desire to help others and his captivating laugh, Peter touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 55 years, Elizabeth (Betty) Keen.  Born on June 15, 1941, he was the fourth and youngest son of Charles and Mary Keen.  After his years at Farmington High, Peter attended and graduated from St. Anselm College.  He met Betty when they were both teaching at St. Christopher School in East Hartford.  After they married, he taught 8^th grade History at Hockanum School.  He was a sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserves, being honorably discharged in 1970. His strong work ethic helped him overcome the odds as he recovered from a cerebral hemorrhage at 32.  Although no longer able to formally teach for his career, he taught others how to thrive when dealt unexpected obstacles.  Never one to be idle, he worked hard at his therapy to be able to walk and increase his speech.  Due to his mindset, he then worked at Pratt and Whitney, packaging small parts for engines. Peter and Betty lived in East Hartford for many years before moving to be closer to their daughter. 

Peter enjoyed the outdoors, raking leaves in the yard and walking their dog. Yearly beach gatherings with family and friends were eagerly anticipated and created wonderful memories. He enthusiastically enjoyed watching sports, especially UConn football and basketball, as well as, the Red Sox.  Above all, family and friends were most dear to him.   He loved watching his grandchildren, his pride and joy, grow and develop their interests. Peter loved their visits and updates on their activities.

He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth (Paul) Stoltenberg; his grandchildren, Ian and Kate; his sister-in laws, Barbara Rommelfanger and Joan (E.J. Jennings) Potkay, as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. In addition to his wife, Betty, Peter was predeceased by his brothers, Charlie Keen, Dr. Gerard Keen, and Father Robert Keen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 16 10 am, at Holy Infant Church located at 450 Race Brook Road Orange, CT. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Peter’s name to Easterseals, https://hartford.easterseals.com/donate-today-make-difference and/or the Parkinson’s Foundation, https://www.parkinson.org/