John "Jack" Keough, 79, of Carbondale, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 20, 2023 at the Jewish Home in Scranton, PA. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Diane Saldonis on October 26, 2017.

Born October 28, 1943 in Carbondale, PA, he was the son of the late John and Margaret Ransom Keough and was a graduate of St. Rose High School, Carbondale, and Bethel College, in McKenzie, TN.

Jack's character was as big as his heart. He was a teacher and coach at the Carbondale Area School District for over 30 years. He loved his family and would do anything to assure their needs were met. Jack will be fondly remembered as a kind, loving and extremely generous human being. His charismatic and fun personality drew so many people to him. Jack enjoyed time with friends, playing golf, dining out and a good stiff drink.

Jack had a soft spot for animals and over the years he adopted and rescued many stray dogs and cats until his illness. During his battle with dementia, he looked forward to visits from friends, especially if they arrived with some treats. Jack loved his daughter, Erin but especially took great joy in disagreeing with her right up until his last breath.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Jewish Home, especially Stephanie, Eleanor, Charlene and Judy, they were his family for the past year. Also, his niece, Katy, for her guidance when Jack was first diagnosed with dementia, Allied Hospice Services including Laura Marion for their special care in his final months and Dr. Matthew Haley for his many years of care as Jack's physician. A special thank you to Linda Rocco, whom Jack loved more than anyone, as well as Erin's friends who helped care for Jack when Erin was unavailable.

He is survived by a daughter: Erin Keough and partner, Joseph Priorielli; one sister: Laurie McDonald and husband, Thomas; two nieces: Katy and Kelly and their children.

The funeral was held Wednesday, January 25, 2023 from Carmine J. & Louis C. Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 89 Farview Street, Carbondale, PA, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. from St. Rose of Lima Church, 6 N. Church Street, Carbondale, PA, celebrated by Rev. Joseph Mosley, senior priest.

An honor guard was provided by the retired and current faculty and staff members of the Carbondale Area School District.

Viewing hours were held on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 from 5-8 p.m.

Jack disliked Mass cards and had no use for them. He always felt if you weren't good enough on this earth than prayers were not going to help on the way up. So in lieu of Mass cards and flowers, please send donations to the NEPA Pet Fund and Rescue, P.O. Box 3953, Scranton, PA 18505 or do a little act of kindness for someone on Jack's behalf.