(Editor’s note: The Wilson Post contacted two very good friends of the late Johnny Keel, a Lebanon businessman and community servant who died last week after battling cancer for many years, to ask if they would write a column for publication about Mr. Keel and the courage he demonstrated while enduring his fight for life. The following is their contribution.)

By BOB BLACK & LARRY KELLER
We hear many stories of people finding the strength to fight the circumstances that are presented to them.

Those who face these issues with the brightest attitude make those around them better for knowing them. Our friend Johnny Keel was one such person. 

He lived his life making sure all around him understood the benefits of living a healthy life. When he found out that his fight for life was a wall in his way, he did not back down. He and his cheerleader wife Peggy chose to break it down.

They fought to find all the answers with his disease, both with nutrition and alternative treatments. He endured years of chemo and radiation to find a way to stay with us. One year he was planning to play in the Five Oaks Club Championship and he adjusted his treatments so that he would be off the week of the championship and even went so far as to work out at Sports Village to assure he’d be at his best.

Not only did he win the Championship that year, but he was the Senior Club Champion for three years in a row. This example just reinforces the kind of competitor Johnny was.

Anyone who knew this “Superman” would say he never complained, never lost his bright smile and he never missed an opportunity to be there for others who were fighting the battle with cancer. Wherever there was a need, you could bet Johnny and the Sports Village family was there to help. 

But we must tell the story of a friend we lost, who was always there to support us with patience and kind words, whose love for life was an inspiration to behold. Johnny Keel has touched the lives of many people in this world and we will all be better for it.  Rarely in life do you have the chance to be blessed with a friend like Johnny. 

Rest in peace our good friend, as you will be missed.