Horseman Gerald D. ‘Bear’ Keene, 72, of Batavia, NY, passed away on May 5 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

He was born February 12, 1944 in Corfu, NY, a son of the late John and Josephine (Kurkowiak) Keene.

He was a trainer at many of the area harness tracks, namely Batavia and Buffalo. During his career his trainees won 149 races. His best season came in 2008 when he conditioned 33 winners.

The graduate of Alexander central schools also enjoyed farming and was always there for his children.

Keene is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sharon (Mast); children, Jennifer Mohr, Clifford and Stacy; brother, Daniel (Pat); sister-in-law, Molly; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Claudia Mohr-Klein; siblings, James, Edward, Pauline ‘Nina’ Lawrence and Elizabeth ‘Molly’ Minick.

The family will be present from 1-3 p.m. Tuesday (May 10) at the Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel, 4120 West Main Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020 where funeral services will immediately follow.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the family.

Please share your memories with his family at tomaszewskifh.com and for more information please call Michael at 585-343-7500.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Gerald Keene.

(USTA)