John Keenan was born November 23, 1929 to John James Keenan and Veronica Fontaine Keenan in New York City.
He completed Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School  and went on to Regis High School.
After high school John went north to Manhattan College, then east to Fordham Law school, earning his Law Degree.
After serving in Japan he came back to New York and married his first love, Diane Nicholson. In 1965 along came their daughter, Marie.
He started his career in the Manhattan DAs office under Frank S. Hogan, and worked his way up to chief assistant ADA under Robert Morgenthau.
In 1983 he was appointed to the Federal Bench by Ronald Reagan. During his 40 tenure on the bench he presided over many noteworthy and significant cases. He was known for his even temperament, fairness and commanding presence on the bench. He was the recipient of many awards and accolades and was revered by the legal community.
The ceremonial court room at the Manhattan Federal Courthouse was dedicated to him and bears his name.

On October 27th, John passed quietly in his sleep at home.
He is survived by Diane, his wife of 68 years; daughter, Marie and Son-in-law,
William Gregory Mutchler, and grandchildren John Keenan Mutchler, "Jack" and
Brian Patrick Mutchler "Bailey"

Wake will be on Sunday, November 3rd from 2:00 - 5:00 pm at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10471. Mass of Christian Burial at will be held on Monday, November 4th at 10:00 am at St. Margaret of Cortona Church, 6000 Riverdale Avenue. Committal will be private.