Thad W. Keefer

Growing up in the Warren, Pa., area, Thad graduated with the Class of 1994 from Warren Area High School. Not long after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Air Force. As an Airman 1st Class, he proudly earned the Air Force Training Ribbon, Outstanding Unit Award, Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon. He carried that sense of duty, honor, and perseverance throughout his life.

Thad’s path was never linear, but it was always full of purpose. He found joy in his work — whether it was with Walmart, Firestone Tire, or most recently, as a service writer with Falconer Power Sports. He had a natural way of connecting with people. Thad didn’t just work with customers; he made friends, told stories, and made people feel seen and appreciated. He lit up a room, and his kindness left an impression on everyone he met.

But if you asked Thad what his greatest achievement was, he’d tell you without hesitation: his sons. Bradyn and Blake were the light of his life, his deepest source of pride. Everything he did — every lesson he taught, every mile he rode, every moment he shared — was grounded in his love for them. He worked hard to make them proud and succeeded in more ways than he likely ever realized. To them, he wasn’t just a dad — he was a role model, a protector, and their greatest cheerleader.

In 2021, on a beautiful day in Bemus Point, New York, Thad married Rebecca L. Snyder. Their love was genuine, rooted in shared laughter, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to one another and their blended family. Thad loved deeply and wholeheartedly, and Rebecca brought him both peace and joy.

Thad embraced not only Rebecca but her entire family. He took great joy in becoming part of a close-knit circle that included her brothers, sisters and brothers-in-law. Whether it was a holiday gathering, a backyard cookout, or a spontaneous family adventure, Thad jumped in with enthusiasm and humor. He especially relished his role as the “fun uncle,” always ready with a joke, a game, or an encouraging word. His nieces and nephews adored him, and he cherished each of them like his own.

Thad’s passions were simple but profound. He loved the freedom of the open road on his motorcycle and the quiet focus of the woods during a hunt. He cherished time with family — especially his dad, whom he looked up to all his life. He had a soft spot for animals, a laugh that came easily, and an authenticity that couldn’t be faked.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Rebecca; sons Blake Keefer of Stockton, NY, and Bradyn Keefer of Panama City, FL; his father and hero, Terry Keefer, and stepmother, Gina Vavala Keefer of Warren, PA; his brother Brian Cox and wife Nichole of Palm Coast, FL; and his mother-in-law, Dorothy Polley Bero of Warren, PA. Thad was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Evrard Cox; his stepfather, Jack Cox; and his fathers-in-law, Ken Snyder and Michael Bero.

Friends and family are welcome to a viewing held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. Full military honors will follow on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 1:00 P.M., presented by the Clarendon/Sheffield V.F.W., the Warren American Legion Funeral Detail, and the U.S. Air Force.

Those who wish to honor Thad’s memory may do so with donations to the Wounded Warrior Project or Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation — organizations that reflect his spirit of service, compassion, and love of the outdoors.

Thad was a man who lived fully, gave freely, and loved deeply. His story doesn’t end here — his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, especially in the sons who carry his name and the values he instilled. Ride free, Thad. You will always be with us.