Gerald Wilburn McKeon

Gerald Wilburn McKeon was born November 3, 1921, in Milford, Utah, to John and Minnie Magdaline (Wilburn) McKeon. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 2, 2014, at his home in Whittier, California, at the age of 92.



Though he spent his first years in Utah, at the age of 7 Gerald moved with his family to East Los Angeles, California. He was Student Body President at Garfield High School where he graduated in 1939. Following graduation, Gerald continued his education at Occidental College in Los Angeles.



When WWII broke out, the Navy was in need of officers. Gerald was sent to Northwestern University near Chicago, Illinois, where he underwent a three-month officers training program. As a newly commissioned LTJG, he was subsequently assigned to the brand new USS Quincy. He experienced many historical moments as he honorably served throughout WWII.



Gerald and his brothers always enjoyed a uniquely close bond. After the war they partnered together in a local grocery store, McKeon Brothers Market. Their partnership was very successful and the market provided a wonderful life for Geralds family for 45 years.



In the summer of 49 Gerald met the love of his life, Gwen Lee Boyd. They were married on November 25, 1949, in Pasadena, California. One week later, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together they made their home in Temple City, California, where they started their family. They built a new home in Whittier, California, and moved there in 1957 until the time of his death.



A family man at heart, Gerald loved his wife, children and grandchildren dearly. He was also a loving son who honored his parents. He had an affable personality that attracted many friends, and he enjoyed his association with them. Gerald also had a wit about him and could be quite a character at times! He will be remembered as a good man who loved and served his fellow men. He was devout in his faith and served in numerous capacities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed gardening, golfing, reading, traveling, and fine dining.



Gerald is survived by his children, Gregory, Mark (Amy), and Bradley McKeon and Kimberlee Duncan; four grandchildren; several loving caregivers; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his Beloved Wife, Gwen Lee, only five weeks earlier.



Viewing will take place from 9-9:45am on Tuesday, September 9th, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7906 Pickering Ave., Whittier, CA 90602. A service will follow at 10am, with interment at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier.