Donald James McKeand, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the age of 92. His passing occurred in the comfort of his youngest daughter’s home in Long Valley, NJ, where he had been lovingly cared for by his daughters with the assistance of Hospice Care.
Donald was born in Scranton, PA, to James and Jessie (Creasy) McKeand. A proud graduate of Clarks Summit High School and East Stroudsburg University, his passion for education led him to a rewarding career in New Jersey teaching geography in the West Orange School District. He would later work at The New Jersey Water Supply Authority in Clinton, NJ. He served his country in the Air Force, receiving an honorable discharge in 1953.
For much of his adult life, Donald resided in Mount Tabor, NJ, before moving to Fogelsville, PA. Even in retirement, he remained an active participant in life. An avid outdoorsman, Donald relished canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. He left his mark on the geocaching community, logging more than 26,000 caches during his enthusiastic pursuits, ranking 15th in Pennsylvania.
Donald’s memory will be kept alive by his three daughters: Julianne, wife of Gary Conserva; Susan, wife of Larry O’Boyle; and Kathryn, wife of Vlad Signorelli, along with his beloved grandchildren: Lawrence O’Boyle, husband of Sarah Webb; Timothy O’Boyle; and Christian, Julia, Donald, and Claire Signorelli. He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Marjorie; his grandson, Jack Signorelli; his daughter, Deborah, wife of Joseph Lee; and his brother, James.
A private memorial service will be held in honor of Donald’s life, celebrating his spirit, legacy, and the indelible memories he leaves behind. His wit and humor, along with his love for the outdoors, and dedication to family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
We wish to thank the Cochran Funeral Home staff for their help and thoughtful care of Donald. Donations in his memory can be made to the Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey. Contributions can be made via their donation page at donate.onecause.com/vnannj/donate.
Condolences(3)-
-
-
Tom Neast says
June 14, 2023 at 9:42 pmOur sincere condolences to all of Don’s family . Don loved the outdoors and had a great sense of humor. He loved being part of the Neast family. Don will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.
Janet Citron says
June 15, 2023 at 12:48 pmDon otherwise known as AppleDon to our geocaching community will be greatly missed. The caching adventures through the years that we shared will be most cherished!! He is an icon and legend!! His life experiences he shared with many of us were comical and memorable!! I will miss him and when I think of him I will have a smile and a chuckle!!!
Pat Lewis says
June 16, 2023 at 2:24 amAlthough the physical body of your father may be gone , may his spirit live on in your hearts. May the joy of the time you spent with him geocaching, kayaking, playing fiends with friends, fill your hearts when you are missing him the most.