NORWICH – John G. Keator, 55, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009, at his home in Taylor afer a courageous battle with cancer.
John was born on Aug. 6, 1953 in Norwich, a son of the late Grover “Don” and Shirley (Monk) Keator.  In John’s younger years, he worked on a Christmas tree farm. He later worked in construction and as a truck driver.  His most recent employment was with Gutchess Lumber where he worked as a truck driver and a welder.
He is survived by his loving companion, Elaine Knight; his three children, Bob (Sandy) Keator, Ernie Keator, and Carlene Keator.  He is also survived by his mother, Shirley Keator of Sherburne; and his grandchildren, Whitney Thompson, Bobby Thompson, James Cummings, Jonathon Keator, Tyler Keator, Breona-Rae Keator, Tristah Keator, and Deacon Brown; a sister, Joan (Tom) Fish of Troy and a brother James (Pam) Keator of Georgia; three nephews and one niece.  He also leaves behind his extended family, Cherie (James) Rice and their children, Stone (Knight), Phoenix, Willow and Arwen Rice, and his many loyal and devoted friends and other family members.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gary and Yvonne Parsons, Allen Cook, Rob Stone, Charles Scutt and the McDonald/Rice families.
Funeral services will be held at the K.L. Sharp Funeral Home at 11 a.m. Wednesday with Reverend Archie Smith officiating.  Burial will be in Wayside Rest Cemetery, Pharsalia, at the convenience of the family in the spring. 
The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. 
Expressions of sympathy in memory of John may be made to the American Cancer Society, 7145 Henry Clay Boulevard, Liverpool, NY 13088.  Personal condolences may be left by visiting www.klsharpfuneralhome.com.