William “Keno” Beezer
Howard Pillot
Keno had infectious enthusiasm for life. I can hear his voice at Teener League baseball practices; any time someone connected with a good hit during batting practice he would yell, “Way to hit the ball!”, it always made you feel good. He was a great coach and he enjoyed helping each player get better. His dedication to making life better for youth and families in the Moshannon Valley is unmatched. He will be missed and always remembered for his incredible service to others.
Judy Brown Hood – Class of ‘54.
What a beautiful obituary written for Keno. It captured the essence of his kindness, his generosity and his spirit. Keno touched so many young lives at the Y, as a coach and baseball scout, and by establishing his college scholarship fund. And up to his death, he was working on a memorial for the football players killed in an automobile accident after practice about 70 some years ago.
He kept in touch with me here in Michigan by sending me articles from the local paper and he and Bear sat on the lawn with me and my daughter to watch the Heritage Day parades. We’re big animal lovers and I thought how sad Bear would be grieving for his constant companion. I am sure that Faith will see that he is well- cared for.
Finally, I thought it was wonderful of the community to show its affection and gratitude for Keno by so many people pitching in to remodel his kitchen and provide donations. He knew his hometown appreciated him.
Judy Brown Hood – Class of ‘54
Lynne Maurer
I’ll always remember his voice yelling all of our nicknames as we all threw the balls at each other in our dodgeball games at the first YMCA.
He had a nickname for everyone
Keno was always so nice and caring to all of us
We will miss you Keno
Thank you for the many memories from the slabtown girls class of 1980!
Rick & Dani Osewalt
I first got to know Keno while playing baseball for Osceola Mills in the Philipsburg Teener League where he was the coach for the always tough Shane Industries. I got to play for him on a couple of All Star teams and quickly saw why his teams were always so good. He knew the game of baseball better than anyone I knew. He was always looking for different ways to win the game.
His life was all about helping others from anyone who played baseball or walked through the doors of the YMCA. The town of Philipsburg has lost a legend and remarkable man. Rest in peace Keno!
Rick & Dani Osewalt
Jeff Stenta
RIP Keno! I appreciate all that he did for my baseball career. He first noticed my potential as a freshman and was like a second father to me during those years, through college and into my mid 20’s. I have so many wonderful memories of this great man and our times spent together. I’m not the best at keeping in touch but when we got together for lunch at The American Diner a few years ago, it meant the world to us both.
Keno, thank you so much for your years of dedication to the youth of our area! Nobody will ever take your place
I the dedication to the youth and sports to this area! Thank YOU sooooo much,
Bill and Cassie Abbott
Jason Yoder
Lots of great times growing up with Beez, he knew me since i was 5 spent a lot of time with him
at the Old Y
Nancy Kyle Bryerton
I remember Keno as a kind and generous person. I worked at Centre County United Way and Keno was a important part of Philipsburg giving his all to the YMCA. His legacy will be forever remembered at the Y.
Charles Flick
Condolences and Prayers for the Beezer Family.
Rich Harlow
I played for Keno on the 1974 VFW Teener League All Star team and the 1977 Philipsburg American Legion team. Best manager I ever played for and a lifelong friend. Talking baseball with Keno was always memorable and informative. Through the YMCA and youth baseball Keno impacted a lot of lives. A life well lived. Godspeed my friend.