Obituary of Mark James Keenan, Sr.

On June 5, 2019, Mark James Keenan, Sr., 62, was called home to his Heavenly Father. Mark succumbed to his battle with Parkinson's at his home while being surrounded by his loving family.He was born on January 2, 1957 in Schenectady, New York to Joseph Keenan and Rita DiCocco who both predeceased him. Despite Mark's difficult childhood, there were individuals within his extended family that took it upon themselves to raise him as their own. Daniel and Joan Keenan demonstrated the family values and love in which Mark continued to share with his wife and children. Through these values Mark was able to excel in high school and became a well-known and feared basketball player. He graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 1976. With his determined attitude, Mark received a full ride scholarship. He went on to attend Albany Business College where he graduated with an Associates in Business. He then moved to Bangor, Maine to further his education where he attended Husson College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. In 1984, Mark joined the United States Army where he served as a Track Vehicle Mechanic for over six years. While serving in the Army he earned three service ribbons and four medals. He and his family loved Colorado Springs so he got out of the Army and pursued a career as a driver at TCC, a bus driver for Colorado Springs School District 2, all while running his own business "Big Mark and Sons".Mark had a passion for life which showed through his love of animals, singing barbershop, riding his Harley, and spending quality time with family. When individuals regarded Mark, it was often for his passion, love and authenticity. Additionally, Mark's adventurous attitude often took him and his Harley wherever the road went. He spent many days riding his Harley for charitable causes and even took a child on his bike, for it was the child's dream. To many, including young children, he was known as a 6'9" gentle giant or a large teddy bear. He spent much of his life making others around him smile and pushing them to be their best. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church where he continued to expand his relationship with God. Mark's devotion to his wife was shown through forty years of marriage and an abundance of affection and love for Cynthia who was his high school sweetheart, she was the one who truly had his heart until the end. Despite his battle with Parkinson's, Mark was a hero among many he continued to push and never gave up. His life is one that can be reflected on and be seen as a real hero in blue jeans or shorts and biker vest. He will be greatly missed; for a shining light has left this world.He leaves his wife of forty years, Cynthia (Kaufmann); his sons, Mark, Jr. (Gabriela Romaro-Keenan) and Christopher (Reina Soto); his daughters, Amy and Mary (Frank O'Laughlin); and eight grandchildren.Graveside Service, 11:00AM, Monday, September 16, 2019, Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80925.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mark's memory to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region. Events Graveside Monday, September 16, 2019 11:00AM Pikes Peak National Cemetery 10545 Drennan Road Colorado Springs, CO 80925 Phone: 202-632-8035