Durbin Keeney, Long Time Veterans Advocate, Passes
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DULUTH- Sunday morning another Northland leader passes, as the community continues to grieve the death of Jim Oberstar.
Long time veterans advocate, Durbin Keeney, passed away.
Keeney was known for organizing numerous events for veterans in town.
Mayor Ness issued a statement saying in part: "I once referred to him as relentless, which he loved. He took it as a compliment, often referring to himself as 'Relentless Keeney' to me from then on. He was passionately devoted to helping others, especially his fellow veterans."
His friends say Keeney was one of a kind.
MACV director, Steve Saari said, "he's probably the most passionate man I've ever met, when it comes to trying to do things to improve the lives of veterans and to get the word out to people about what serving in the military is all about."
Saari took over for Keeney at the MACV, once he retired.
He says he and his staff, and northland vets will have big shoes to fill.