Wendell Earle Mckeever

Wendell Barney McKeever, 87 of Redlands, California died on Monday, April 11, 2011, at his residence in Redlands, California. Born Sunday, November 18, 1923 in Booker, Texas to Earle McKeever & Ruby Cole. He graduated from Harper High School in 1942. Shortly after graduating he joined the Air Force realizing his dream to fly in The USAF. Major Wendell E. McKeever served as a combat pilot in WWII and was considered one of the finest pilots in the History of World War II aviation. He belonged to the 474th Fighter Group Association and was in combat missions from D-Day invasion in France to the end of the war at Langensalza, Germany. He served his country honorably from October 1, 1943 to his retirement on September 30, 1962. Wendell s brother Ivan and his wife Lela of Oklahoma were very proud of his accomplishments and determination to make a success in the Air Force. Survived by his devoted wife Mary Lou McKeever of over 66 years, son, Patrick Kevin McKeever, and daughter, Deborah Ann McKeever, three grandchildren; Steve Harrison of Redlands, Jeff Harrison of Redlands, and Taylor McKeever of Atascadero, three great-grandchildren; Lauren, Audrey, and Annebel. He was predeceased by sons, Thomas Wayne McKeever, Michael Edward McKeever, brother, Denny McKeever, and sister, Louise Pearson. A funeral service will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday April 23, 2011 at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel located at 703 Brookside Ave. Redlands, CA 92373. Interment will be held at a later dater at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA. In lieu of flowers please make contributions in Barney s name to the hospice of Choice.