ERIE — Douglas Lynn Keaton, 69, of Erie passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri.
Doug was born on Dec. 25, 1955, in Waynesville, Missouri, to Don and Vergena Keaton. He grew up in O’Fallon, Missouri, where he attended school. As a young man, he worked alongside his father at Beachner Construction, laying the groundwork for a lifelong career built on hard work and dedication.
Doug worked in various construction roles before achieving a longtime dream of owning his own semi-truck. He found his calling in trucking and worked as a heavy hauler. He worked on heavy hauls for the Daily Express of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for a long time and finally retired in November 2024 when his health began to decline.
On June 6, 1986, Doug married Melinda in Miami, Oklahoma. They would have celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary this year. Together, they built a life full of love, resilience and family.
Doug is survived by his loving wife, Melinda Keaton, of the home; his children, Billy Meins and wife Michele of Humboldt, Carla Johnson and husband Curly of Erie and Lee Maurer and wife Brandy of Erie; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister, Dottie; and his driving companion, Greta, his dog.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Vergena Keaton; and his sister, Donna Lampert.
Doug will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic and the quiet strength he brought to those around him. He has a legacy of perseverance and pride in a job well done.
The funeral day and time will be announced on the Pierce-Carson- Wall Funeral Home website www.wallfuneralservices.com.
