Keene Swett

SWETT, KEENE, HOUSTON, SHEEHAN, SHATTUCK, MEINHOLZ

Posted By: Sarah Fletcher (email)
Date: 6/10/2020 at 11:44:56

Keene Swett, 87, of Iowa City, passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.

Born November 6, 1932 in Wilton, Maine, the son of Charles and Agnes (Keene) Swett. Keene married the love of his life, Joan Diane Houston on August 28, 1954 in Caribou, Maine.

He graduated from Wilton Academy and received his bachelor’s degree from Tufts University, a Masters degree from the University of Colorado and his PhD from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Keene served in the United States Army from 1955-57. The family moved to Iowa City in 1966 after Keene accepted a position as a professor with the Department of Geology, retiring in 1996. His research was instrumental in proving the theory of continental drift in the northern hemisphere.

Keene had many passions. Family was especially important to him. He enjoyed every opportunity to get the family together. Whether it was Hawkeye football weekends, ski trips, time spent at the cabin in Maine or adventure travel around the world.

His love of outdoors included kayaking, skiing, hiking, camping
and boating

After retirement, he enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Maine where he continued to pursue his interests.

Keene was also very committed to his teaching career and the geology students he taught. His professional accomplishments include multiple grants from the National Science Foundation and many articles in scientific journals.

Survivors include his wife Joan; son, Alan Swett (Lisa) of Johnston, Iowa and daughter, Jo Ann Sheehan (Dennis) of Stoughton, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Michael Shattuck (Stephanie), Kelly Meinholz (Brad), Tyler Swett (Ashley) and Brandon Swett; great-grandchildren, Skylar, Cody, Jack and Jude and a sister in law, Kathy Swett of Skowhegan, Maine.

Keene was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Carlton.

Keene loved exploring the National Parks. The family wishes memorials be made via the website: donate.nationalparks.org in lieu of flowers or plants.

Keene chose to be cremated.

Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service
 

Johnson Obituaries maintained by Cindy Booth Maher.
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