Keenan L. Elliott, 73, passed away unexpectedly Friday, December 13, 2024 at his home in Belleville, Kansas.
Keenan was born October 6, 1951, to LeeRoy and Bonnie (Botz) Elliott of Republic and later, Belleville, KS. Keenan graduated in 1969 from Republic High School. Growing up he helped his dad and mom on the farm. Throughout his entire adult life, he was a proud supporter of Republic and worked tirelessly to promote it. In downtown Republic, he turned an abandoned garage into a man-cave/community hang out where everyone was welcome. His presence in that small community will be missed as Keenan worked tirelessly to promote it.
After high school, Keenan attended Beloit Vo-Tech for automotive mechanical training. His ability to diagnose and repair cars was uncanny and many a friend and family member benefitted from his talents. Keenan worked in Conklin sales for over 50 years, achieving the title of Area Director and winning multiple sales and leadership awards. Keenan was a collector of antique cars, car parts, signs, and other related collectibles since his teen years, amassing an impressive collection. In his early years he raced stock cars at local tracks – one of which is where he met the love of his life, Linda. His passion for racing was reignited in later years when he began racing dragsters and antique race cars. His joy of racing was surpassed only by the pure love and joy he experienced dancing with Linda and spending time with his granddaughters.
Keenan was a kind soul and had a special place in his heart for the less fortunate, providing for many in need during difficult times. Most importantly, he was a passionate believer in Jesus Christ and talked about his beliefs every chance he got.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Linda (Karmazin) Elliott of the home, son Nathan Elliott of Santa Fe, NM, daughter Nicole and husband Ryan Bays of Lenexa; brother, Craig (Jan) Elliott of Courtland, sister Lecia Chaney of Kingwood, TX, and the lights of his life, his granddaughters, Elliott and Penelope Bays of Lenexa. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Geraldine Karmazin, Superior, NE, brothers-in-law Darold (Serita) Karmazin, Lincoln, NE, Duane (Eileen) Karmazin, Omaha, NE, sisters-in-law, Janice (Larry) Heusinkvelt, Martell, NE, Lisa (Randy) Ruff, Gretna, NE, an aunt, Verlene Veteto of Courtland, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law, Gene Karmazin; brother-in-law, Stuart Chaney; and nephew, Chris Karmazin.
An informal service of memories and reminiscing to celebrate his life will be held at the Republic Community Church on Thursday, December 19, at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the church on Friday, December 20, at 11:00 a.m. followed by inurnment at Lake Cemetery, Republic. Memorials to the family will be designated later, and may be sent to Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, PO Box 566, Belleville, Kansas, 66935.
