Michael McKeehan

Dr. P. Michael (Ekim) McKeehan passed away early Thursday morning. Born in 1944, Mike moved to Cheney with his parents in 1957. Mike graduated from Cheney High School in 1962 and attended Haverford College in Philadelphia. After graduation, Mike enrolled in graduate school at the University of Washington and earned his Ph. D. in History of Education.

After his time at UW, Mike returned to Cheney where he married Judy. After a short stay in Enumclaw, Mike and Judy and their two sons, Daegen and Matthew, returned to Cheney. Mike began teaching for the Cheney School District in 1976 and continued for 30 years. Education was a passion for Mike and inspired three of his children to follow him into the profession.

Mike was a member of the United States Coast Guard reserve for over thirty years. He rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Fourth Class in the course of his service.

Mike was an avid runner and was one of only a handful of people who have competed in every single Bloomsday. He also greatly enjoyed reading and was an avidly involved in politics. He was also a devoted fan and season ticket holder of the Washington Huskies as well as a season ticket holder at Interplayers Theater in Spokane.

Mike served on the City Council in Cheney starting in 1997. He truly loved the city of Cheney and was overjoyed with the opportunity to serve it as a Council member and member of the Planning Commission.

Mike is survived by his wife Judy of Cheney, sons Daegen Duvall (Renee) of Avon Lake, Ohio, Matt Duvall (Melissa) of Raleigh, North Carolina, Patrick McKeehan II (Janalyn) of Lake Tapps, Washington and daughter Katie Hart (Carl) of West Seattle. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, three sisters and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held for Mike at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cheney on Sunday, July 22. A reception at the church followed. Please send donations in lieu of flowers to Cheney High School Haas Foundation care of Jim Missel in remembrance of P. Michael McKeehan.