John Lee Keegan

Date of birth  - November 26, 1960

Date of death  - January 21, 2026

John Lee Keegan was born in Silverton, Ore. On November 26, 1960 to Thomas Eusebius Patrick Keegan & Jean D. Harrington Keegan. He was the third of six children. John passed away peacefully, at home on January 21, 2026. He was diagnosed with melanoma cancer only a few months prior.

John attended Molalla Grade School and graduated from Molalla Union High School [in 1979]. He lived in Molalla for his entire life and loved the community. For many years John worked for Oak Construction framing houses. For the past eight years, he worked for Molalla Discount Tire. John was a devoted member of the Molalla Moose Lodge where he and his partner Cheryl were often found preparing for charity events.

John was commonly called “Johnny Cat or Cat”. A nickname he was dubbed in the early 90’s. John was quite fond of the nickname and wore it like a badge of honor. John had a heart as big as Texas. He was considerate of others and good natured. He had no tolerance for conflict or gossip. He always had a warm greeting or hug for everyone. John was a simple soul that required very little to be content.

John is preceded by his father, Tom E. P. Keegan; mother, Jean D Harrington Keegan and brothers Joseph (Tony) Anthony Keegan and James Christopher Keegan.

John is survived by his partner, Cheryl Gunderson. Loved as sons; Jesse, Joseph and Christopher Ratcliff. Sisters; Tracy Jean Keegan, Mary Agnes Fronk (Dean). Brother; Thomas Patrick Keegan (Kathy). Loved as a sister; Dorothy Muse-Matthaeus. Loved as his grandchildren; Jack, Killian, Henry and Noah; five nieces; Jessica, Lindsey, Makayla, Gweneth and Kylie. three nephews; Tyler, Drew and Morgen. Aunt; Joan L Harrington Quigley and 11 Cousins.

Please join John’s Family & Friends for the following Services & Celebration of Life. Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11:00 am. Rosary will be performed at St. James Catholic Church, 301 Frances Street in Molalla. At 11:30 am a Memorial Mass will follow. Sunday February 22, 2026 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm a Celebration of Life will be held at the Molalla Moose Lodge, 419 Eckard Ave, Molalla. The Theme is “Tie Dye”. Wear your favorite!

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the local Molalla Moose Lodge in support of their community outreach services.

 
John Lee Keegan MHS Class of 1979