Paul Keenan
March 19, 1955 ~ May 28, 2026
It is with heavy hearts — but also countless great memories and laughs — that we announce the passing of Paul Joseph Keenan on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the age of 71 years. Paul lived life fully and loudly. He loved deeply, laughed often, worked hard, and never missed an opportunity to share an opinion, a sarcastic comment or a story that somehow got bigger every time it was told. He leaves behind his loving wife, Sandra Keenan; his sons, Ian (Koi) Layton, Christopher (Stacey) Frisch and Jesse (Ami) Keenan; three grandchildren, Tyler, Samantha and Marissa; extended family members, lifelong friends, former coworkers, hunting buddies, fishing partners and fantasy football rivals who will miss him dearly. Born in Regina, Saskatchewan to Jessie and John Keenan, Paul was the youngest of six siblings: Dennis, Gerald, Louise, Claude, and John. As a young man, Paul was an exceptional athlete. He starred in basketball and fastball, even making it to Cincinnati Reds tryouts — though depending on which version of the story you heard, it may have turned into more of a cross-country adventure with what would become lifelong friends than a baseball career. After a short time with the Regina Fire Department, Paul moved west to Calgary, where he spent 38 years with the City of Calgary as a respected leak locator and familiar face known for his ponytail, well-worn ball caps and infectious smile. Paul loved the outdoors and was happiest somewhere deep in the backcountry with a truck, camper, fishing rod and enough supplies to survive several apocalypses. Whether camping near Coleman, James River, Blood Indian, Marianne Creek or Top of the World, he always seemed able to find places most people couldn’t — and sometimes couldn’t find their way back from. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who proudly stocked freezers with homemade deer sausage and jerky that family and friends still claim can’t be matched. Paul also had a lifelong love of big dogs, from Jake the Malamute, to Jack, to Gus — lovingly renamed “Nana-Papa-Gus” by his grandchildren, Tyler and Samantha. His love for animals carried into his support for CNIB and service dog programs. A devoted NFL fan, Paul was a longtime member and arguably one of the founding fathers of a well-known City of Calgary football pool that still lives on today. He managed his fantasy football teams with absolute confidence, occasionally asking his grandson for advice and just as frequently regretting ignoring it. Above all else, Paul will be remembered for his quick wit, loyal heart, legendary storytelling and ability to make people laugh wherever he went. He truly left his mark on everyone lucky enough to know him. A Celebration of Life will be held later this summer, with details to follow. Family and friends are invited to join together for one last party in Paul’s honour — with good food, cold drinks, great music, stories, laughter and probably a few rounds of hacky sack. So, dust off your kicking skills and stay tuned. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Crematorium & Reflections Reception Facility, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4V4. Telephone 403-527-6455
- Date : 2026-05-28
- Location : Medicine Hat, Alberta