James Edward Keenan, 71, of Wilmington, DE, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 26th at Christiana Hospital.  Formerly of N. Franklin St. in Wilmington, James attended: Holy Saviour, Foulk Rd. Elementary, Forward Jr. High and Concord High School throughout his schooling.  He played football during his high school years, including the DE Blue & Gold game his senior year, 1973.  After graduating, James worked throughout the State of Delaware as a carpenter/framer, and worked as a bouncer at night in several taverns and drinking establishments from Wilmington to Dewey Beach. 

In 1969 he started taking karate lessons at Shotokan Karate at the Arden Gild Hall, and worked his way up to obtaining a black belt at Nordel Karate Club under the leadership of Joe Healey of Wilmington, and some classes with Bill “Superfoot” Wallace in CA.  He also co-owned Keenan’s Irish Pub in Wilmington where he was liked by everyone from all walks of life.  He loved spending time with family and many friends and enjoyed good food, drinks, music and making great memories.  James was also an accomplished drummer and guitarist and loved to sing in his 50’s band, “Backlash,” in all the places that he used to be a bouncer in.  His favorite times were living at the beach and having everyone down for crabs, birthday celebrations with his faithful German Shepherd companion, Elvis, and taking everyone out on his pontoon boat.

James was the favorite uncle, brother and friend.  He is survived by his son, Jason R. Keenan (Caitlin) of Lincoln University, PA; sister, Rita Powell (David) of Smyrna; brothers, William Keenan, Robert Keenan (Ginger) both of Wilmington; nieces, Niki Keenan-Callaghan (Michael) of Lincoln University, PA; Angela Pollock (Ben) of Middletown; and nephews, Christopher Biddle of Smyrna; Matthew Biddle (Sherry) of Lantana, Fl., and Casey Keenan (Molly) of Wilmington. 

No formal service will be held at the family’s request.  Instead, they invite you to take a moment for personal reflection and cherish the memories shared.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302-798-7726