Skip to content

Margaret Eileen Keene (née Johnson)

February 23, 2026

Passed away peacefully after a devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Margaret was the first born to Colin and June Johnson on the farm in Ekfrid Township. Siblings Ruth Elaine and Colin Mark joined the family later. Margaret’s love of nature and being outdoors can be traced back to the wonderful childhood living the simple life with her family. She attended a one-room country school SS#6 for eight years. High school in Glencoe was so much fun, with sports and cadets playing a prominent role in shaping her leadership skills.

Margaret chose nursing as a career and married the cutest boy in town, Gary Keene. She embraced the military life, working as a nurse at each posting; Petawawa 71-75, Trenton 75-79, Lahr Germany 79-84, Winnipeg 84-87, and finally, London.

Margaret always had time for volunteer work; many years in leadership at her beloved church, Trinity Presbyterian; Parkwood Hospital; community representative Research Dept UWO; Ronald MacDonald House; Cancer Clinic Chemo suite; and the last 2 years at McCormick Home.

Margaret relished the challenges of holding down the fort for Gary’s many “away from family” postings. Good times were spent with the boys, enjoying their sports and cultivating lasting friendships. She was always thankful for having the grandchildren close and able to babysit. They enjoyed catching frogs in the drainage pond, scavenger hunts in Kains Woods, picnics by the river, fishing and snowboarding, and always making memories.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents, June and Colin Johnson, husband Gary (2013), grandson Collin (2006), granddaughter Samantha (2008) and sister-in-law, Marilyn (2019).

Survived by precious sons Ryan and Jeffery and much-loved daughters-in-law, Jennifer and Shauna; cherished grandchildren, Meghan, Nolan, Channer, Calleigh, and Clarkson. sister Ruth Juryn, brother Mark Johnson (Sue), brother-in-law Doug Keene; and seven nephews and two nieces.

She will be remembered by many friends, old and new. Margaret enjoyed so many happy times travelling Europe and skiing the Alps with Gary, and then with special friends. The last nine years have been such a bonus; living, golfing and making new connections at RiverBend Golf Community.

A private funeral service was held at Westview Funeral Home. If desired, donations may be made to the Trinity Presbyterian Church and/or The McCormick Home.  A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, April 11, 2026, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Little Brown Farm, 22007 Wonderland Road North, Arva.

Leave a tribute for Margaret Eileen Keene (née Johnson)

Leave a tribute

  • Accepted file types: jpg, png, gif, Max. file size: 2 MB.

A donation has been made to The McCormick Home. Message from the donator: Our sincere Condolences to Margaret's family.

~ Ted & Teresa Karp

A donation has been made.

~ Joelle Armstrong

Raymond and I were truly shocked and very saddened to hear of Margaret’s passing. We were very fortunate to have been neighbours with Gary and Margaret for many years here on Optimist. We have many fond memories of time spent with them. When Margaret moved to the Riverbend community we enjoyed a few golf games with her and having visits with her in her lovely condo. Margaret was a truly kind and beautiful person both inside and out. She was one of a kind! She will be very missed! May her memory be a blessing🥰. We are thinking and praying for Ryan and Jennifer and Jeff and Shauna and of course all of their children as they grieve for the loss of their wonderful grandmother! Sending hugs and much love your way!

~ Joëlle and Ray Armstrong

I first met Marg at a Thames Valley Ambulance Christmas Party which I attended with my (paramedic) husband, David. She and Gary were snuggled together on the grand staircase of the venue. We chatted for a longtime and I found them both to be so friendly, funny and accepting. I met her later when we attended the same church and then be became elders together. Marg was the best! Kind, concerned, and caring. Devoted to her husband and family, friends, colleagues and church family. I’m sad she’s no longer with us but, I cherish the drives, meetings, retreats, dinners and conversations we shared and the wonderful person she was. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her. God speed Marg and give our love to Gary and your grandbabies! ❤️🙏

~ Mary Peterson

I so enjoyed meeting Margaret at RiverBend - she was such a special person. My sincere condolences to her family. She will be missed....

~ Louise Good

I met Margaret as an Ambassador for RivedBend, welcoming new residents to the community. Margaret had a real joy for life and nature, and always a smile. It was a pleasure to have known her and she will be missed.

~ Alice Weiss


Margaret greeted us warmly when we moved in across the street from her. We knew instantly we had a new friend. We shared funny stories about nursing and policing over a glass of wine or two. We enjoyed helping her with a few chores and she was always cheerful and thankful. Her laughter was contagious and Margaret was always fun to be around. She spoke about her family whom she adored and we know they will miss her dearly too. The community will not be the same without our Dear Margaret. To all of the Keene and Johnson families, please know that Margaret was one of a kind. Rebecca and Dave

~ Rebecca Herrington

Our sincere condolences, Ryan and Jeff, on the loss of your mom. She was a wonderful friend and neighbour. We have many happy memories of our time in Mahlberg and family trips together. Both of your parents were special people, taken far too soon. ❤️

~ Darlene & Dirwyn Hayes

Such a beautiful lady inside and out. She was so kind and giving of herself. She'll be missed by many in the Riverbend community.

~ Sue Crowley

We wish to express our deep sorrow in the passing of Margaret. She will be remembered as kind and generous person whose optimism and warmth were present at many family gatherings. Our hearts go out to Jeff, Shauna, Channer, Calleigh and Clarkson. As well to Ryan, Jennifer and family and to the many friends who cared so much for Margaret. We are so sorry for your loss. Love, Laura, Doug, Catherine and Nini

~ The Beamish Family

Margaret was the first friend I made when we moved to London 10 years ago. She taught me so much about friendship, gardening and golf. And she used to chuckle when I told people she saved my life when I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 8 years ago.. but I truly meant it.. I will miss morning coffee with her. Monday and Friday golf just won't be the same without her. Life at RiverBend just won't be the same without her. 💔

~ Catharine Pyke-Walters

I offer my sincere condolences to Margaret’s family and friends. I had the pleasure of working with Margaret in the emergency department and I will remember her for her warm smile and calming presence. She loved that we were both able to share and talk about our military postings and related experiences. Her passing came as a shock as it was not long ago I saw her at Shauna’s clothing boutique. What a huge void for all of you, take comfort in all of your memories. Cathy

~ Cathy Litwin

Dear Ryan, Jeffery and family, We are saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend, Margaret. We met Marg and Gary in Germany where we shared many fine dining experiences and fun days on the ski 🎿 slopes of Europe. May she Rest in Peace. Sincerest condolences, Gary and Christine McDermott

~ Gary and Christine McDermott

Margaret was such a lovely person. I know she will be missed dearly. My condolences to her family.

~ Becky Savoy

I met Margaret three years ago in Riverbend, I so enjoyed golfing with Margaret and then playing mahjong with her. She had the most beautiful smile and warm heart. Margaret truly was a beautiful lady both inside and out. When you were with Margaret it was always a great day, I didn’t know Margaret for very long but I will truly miss her. My deepest sympathies to her family , my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this sad time.

~ Pat Catton

Ryan and Jennifer, Jeff and Shauna…and families. I am saddened to read of the passing of Margaret. She was a dear and exceptional friend. We worked together at CBS. I always looked forward to working with her and the times we would have coffee together. Such a blessing. Deepest condolences to you all.. May the Lord give His comfort and peace to sustain you, bless you in a special way..

~ Corrie Bendall

Sincere condolences to the family. Margaret was a real special lady. We got to meet her at Riverbend. She was always smiling and always nice. It’s always a privilege to know people like Margaret. She will be missed.

~ Louise Morin and Kevin Duncan

Services for Margaret Eileen Keene (née Johnson)

Celebration of Life will be held at:
Little Brown Farm
22007 Wonderland Road North
Arva, Ontario

April 11, 2026 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Trinity Presbyterian Church

The McCormick Home

Notify family of your donation

Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.