Obituary – Douglas “Doug” Keaton

 Douglas “Doug” Lynn Keaton, 69, of Erie, Kansas, passed away on March 28, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri.

Doug was born on December 25, 1955, in Waynesville, Missouri, to Don and Vergena Keaton. He grew up in O’Fallon, Missouri, where he attended school. As a young man, he worked alongside his father at Beachner Construction, laying the groundwork for a lifelong career built on hard work and dedication.

Doug went on to work in various construction roles before achieving a longtime dream of owning his own semi-truck. He found his calling in trucking and worked as a heavy hauler. He worked on heavy hauls for the Daily Express of Carlisle, Pa., for a long time and finally retired in November 2024 when his health began to decline.

On June 6, 1986, Doug was united in marriage to Melinda Reitz, in Miami, Oklahoma. They would have celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary this year. Together, they built a life full of love, resilience, and family.

Doug is survived by his loving wife, Melinda Keaton, of the home. His children also survive him – Billy Meins and wife Michele, of Humboldt, Kansas; Carla Johnson and husband Curly, of Erie, Kansas; and Lee Maurer and wife Brandy, of Erie, Kansas. Other survivors include his sister, Dottie, 10 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. His driving companion Greta, his dog. He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Vergena Keaton, and his sister, Donna Lampert.

Doug will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic and the quiet strength he brought to those around him. He has a legacy of perseverance and pride in a job well done.

Memorial services were held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Erie Baptist Church with Pastor Danny Flippo officiating. Memorials are suggested to the Erie Baptist Church and may be mailed to the Pierce-Carson-Wall Funeral Home, P.O. Box 182, Erie, KS 66733. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.