James Keene (Cornell ’54) Obituary

Editors note – This article was originally published in the New York Times. 

KEENE–James H, III, passed away Wednesday, October 17, at home, in peace, surrounded by his immediate family in Omaha, Nebraska. For over 60 years, Jim Keene lived the Sigma Pi creed both as a stellar supporter of Mu Chapter, Cornell University and as a civic leader in his community. After pledging in the fall of 1953, Jim served with dedication, devotion, and passion in order not only to establish Mu Chapter as a strong organization but to complement its stability in both housing and scholarship funding. Jim served as president of Mu Chapter’s alumni board over 21 years. In 2014, he was presented with the Founders Award, Sigma Pi’s highest honor. Jim served for 32 years with Peter Kiewit Sons Inc, and managed Humboldt Specialty Manufacturing Company. He was an active director of Mu Chapter’s alumni board and the Mu Chapter Educational Foundation. Memorial contributions can be made to Mu Chapter of Sigma Pi Fraternity P.O. Box 876, Ithaca, NY 14851-0876 P.O. Box 876, Ithaca, NY 14851-0876