William E. "Bill" McKeen III

William Edward McKeen III, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on May 30th, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on December 22, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, Bill lived a life defined by hard work, and a deep appreciation for the people and places that enriched his journey.

The son of William Edward McKeen Jr. and Maria Smith McKeen, Bill grew up in New York City, attending Xavier High School in Manhattan. A gifted student with a passion for science and problem-solving, he went on to earn both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University.

Some of Bill’s fondest childhood memories were spent in Mill Rift, Pennsylvania. He remained close to his “Mill Rift” buddies throughout his life. He loved spending time outdoors, particularly fly fishing.

Another special place in Bill’s heart was his hunting cabin in Delhi, New York. Some of his greatest legends originated there alongside his best friend, whose friendship began when they were just six years old and endured for more than seven decades. 

Bill and Toni met as young professionals at the Pfizer plant in Brooklyn. Bill devoted his entire professional career to Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, where he built a reputation as a thoughtful mentor, strategic leader, and respected colleague. Those who worked for him will remember him as a good, effective boss with excellent technical skills, and outstanding business acumen.

His work took him from Pfizer offices in Brooklyn and Manhattan to leadership positions throughout Latin America and across the globe. One of the most meaningful chapters of his career was serving as Country Manager in Santiago, Chile, where he spent five years immersed in the culture, people, and beauty of a country that would forever hold a special place in his heart, even if he never was able to shake his thick American accent when speaking Spanish.

In 1985, Bill and his family settled in Ridgefield, CT. While his professional accomplishments were significant, Bill's greatest pride was always his family. He is survived by his wife, Toni (Anastasio) McKeen and their children, Melissa Coffman, her husband Donald, and their daughters, Charlotte and Caroline, and David McKeen, his wife Joanna (Bayer), and their children, Madison and Max, and dog best friend Brody. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Alice McKeen, and her family.

Bill lived a full and meaningful life—one marked by professional achievement, enduring friendships, and, above all, love for his family. His legacy lives on in the values he passed to his children and grandchildren, the friendships he cultivated around the world, and the countless shared memories.

As a father, Bill led by example. He encouraged his children to work hard, aim high, and approach life with confidence. He took great pride in watching Melissa and David build their own lives and families. His guidance, quiet strength, and unwavering belief in them shaped who they are today. Bill found immense joy in being a grandfather and cherished every opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren, teaching them the recipe to his infamous green shake, and his wonderfully dry sense of humor. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. 

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM in Saint Mary's Church; 55 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. Entombment will follow in Saint Mary's Cemetery, Ridgefield.