Obituary of Joseph Edward Keenan

WARRENSBURG: Joseph Edward Keenan, affectionately known as “Ed,” peacefully crossed the finish line on the morning of February 3, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born to the late Joseph Keenan and Geraldine Keenan, Ed grew up in Peru, New York, before making Warrensburg, New York, his home. There he built a full life of hard work, deep friendships, and an enduring passion for speed.

He was predeceased by his parents and siblings: brothers William Keenan and Peter Keenan, and sisters Patricia Rivers and Mary Provost.

Ed is survived by his loving companion of 15 years, Patsy Mitchell, and his loyal dog, Angel, who were constants by his side. He shared a particularly close and heartfelt bond with his surviving brother Michael Keenan. Ed also leaves behind his sister Geraldine “Sis” Shadrick, several nieces and nephews; as well as Patsy’s family, who loved him dearly and often spoke of what a good, kind man he was and how wonderfully he cared for Patsy.

A proud United States Marine, Ed served as a jet engine mechanic, earning the Good Conduct Medal for his faithful and honorable service.

Ed spent his career as a Union Millwright, forging lifelong friendships and earning respect among colleagues even long after retirement.

Above all, Ed’s true passion was dirt track racing. He was a champion on the local circuit, starting strong by winning Rookie of the Year in 1969 at Devil’s Bowl Speedway. He went on to claim track championships there in 1976 and 1993, amassing an impressive 27 feature wins at Devil’s Bowl, 10 wins at Albany-Saratoga Speedway in the Late Model/Pro Stock divisions, and two in the Dirt Series Late Models at Fonda Speedway. Fast Eddie’s early rides included the iconic “Grey Ghost” car number 07, a fan favorite on the circuit. After years of semi-retirement, Ed made a sensational comeback in 1993, driving car number double zero to 11 feature wins that season. He capped his storied career in grand style on Devil’s Bowl Legends Night in July 2024, when he was inducted into the New York State Stock Car Association Hall of Fame—a fitting honor for a driver who lived for the thrill of the track.

Ed was as determined as they come, stubborn as a mule, strong as a bull, incredibly kind and quick with a laugh. One of his favorite lines at the cash register was “How much do you owe me?” delivered with that signature grin. Later in life, he loved nothing more than hearing Patsy sing.

A special note of gratitude goes to Ed’s good friends who kept him rolling—literally and figuratively: Gary Nolan and Carole Skellie; Bryan Rounds and Laney Morgan; Tim Hill, who patched his truck together time and again; and his longtime buddies Rambo and Swinton, who always had each other’s backs. Ed and Patsy shared countless joyful dinners and good times with Frank and Linda Bennett, and cherished heartfelt friendships with Pauline Pleszar, Marba Gilchrist, and Jeanne Martingale.

A memorial in Ed’s honor will be held later this year at Albany-Saratoga Speedway—details to follow for those who’d like to celebrate his life on the very track he loved.

Ed's ashes will be buried next to his parents in Peru, New York, in a private ceremony with full military honors.

Patsy would have loved to send him off with her voice singing Vince Gill’s “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” a fitting farewell for a man who raced hard, loved deeply, and left everything on the track. Rest easy, Ed—your checkered flag has waved, and the crowd’s still cheering.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guest book.