Donald Keeler

Donald E. Keeler, born on September 16, 1933 in Waldwick, NJ, peacefully departed this life on February 16, 2024. Predeceased by parents John and Florence Keeler, sister Carol, and his loving wife Darlene. He leaves behind his loving daughters Darla and her husband Ron and Dana Irons and her husband Daniel. He was a cherished grandfather to Donald and Danny. Donald’s enduring legacy is the love and warmth he shared with his family.

Don’s early years were spent in Waldwick, NJ. He attended Ramsey High School and was a talented basketball player. He was drafted into the US Army where he served his Country in Korea, shortly after the Armistice was signed. Upon returning he married his sweetheart, Darlene Heinz. Don attended Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ while working full time as a machinist at Watson Machine Company. He later went on to work as a Packaging Engineer for International Paper where he headed up countless projects and developed many patents along the way. His career allowed him to travel the world. His most famous packaging design was the screw top fitment used on many of the paper cartons today.

Don had a positive outlook on life, and it showed with his warm friendly disposition. He loved to watch and root for his beloved Yankees and NY Giants. He was an avid golfer and very athletic. Don raised his family in Vernon, NJ and later moved to Forks Township, PA with his wife Darlene. May he rest in eternal peace, his memory forever etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 4-8 PM at Maguire Memorial Home, 124 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840 and again on Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 9:30 AM until time of service at 10:00 AM in the funeral home. Burial will take place at Pequest Union Cemetery in Great Meadows, NJ

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942, http://www.stjude.org/

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Maguire Memorial Home, 124 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. To send an online condolence, please visit www.scalamemorialhome.com.