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June 9, 2008

Keele family finds joy entertaining

BY DENNIS BARTLOW

Kenton, Mark and Tyler Keele have a special bond. Not only are they grandfather, father and son, the trio loves to play music, especially at senior centers and nursing homes.

“I started with my Dad 20 years ago,” Mark said. He was happy when his own son, Tyler, joined the group.

The three men enjoy singing together along with the playing various instruments. Mark’s wife, Rickie, sings some numbers with them, and Tim Parks, a friend, provides bass.

They enjoy going to the Friendship Circle Center and the Waters of Covington in Covington, Ind., the Woodland Manor Nursing Center in Attica, Ind., and various churches.

“We started doing this about six years ago,” Mark said. “Years ago my Dad and grandma and grandpa were in a group called the Rhythm Rangers.”

In memory of Mark’s grandparents, the Keele family wears red shirts when they sing.

“We sing country and gospel,” said Rickie.

The Keeles do this for the love of music and for helping others.

“When they come up and pat you on the arm, that’s the only thanks we want,” Mark said. The group does not charge for its appearances at senior centers and nursing homes.

Music has always been a part of the Keele family at their Perrysville, Ind., home. Mark began playing banjo when he was 13 years old. He then advanced to mandolin, piano and keyboard. He and his wife now live in Tilton.

“He didn’t sing until later,” said his mother, Janis, who coordinates the group’s appearances.

Kenton plays the banjo, mandolin, fiddle and guitar.

At a recent appearance at the Friendship Circle Center, the Keele family entertained the lunch crowd and those who stayed after the meal.

Tyler, the youngest link of the Keele trio, was not with his father and grandfather at a recent appearance at the Friendship Circle Center, because of a doctor’s appointment. He began playing with his father and grandfather nine years ago, when he was 16.

This is the second time the Keeles have featured three generations. Mark and his father played earlier with Kenton’s father.

“I like the music; it’s a little gospel, a little ’50s and ’60s,” said Betty Bergeron of Covington, who danced with her husband after lunch.

The Keeles’ cousin, Delores Hollowell, joined them, dressed as an Indian, and mingled with the crowd.

“They volunteer here once a month,” said Jane Bowers, executive director of the Friendship Circle Center. “The people here love having them. They play so many instruments. They will do anything from ’50’s and ’60s to bluegrass to hymns.”

Music is a way of life.

“Whenever they get together, it is automatic to play music,” said Janis.

Mark really enjoys the time with his father and son.

“I cherish every day I can play music with my Dad and my son,” he said.

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