James Keo, Sr., 83, of Horton passed away July 13, 2020 at home surrounded by his family.

He was born January 22, 1937 the son of David and Mildred Anderson Keo. He attended the Red Top country school through the 8th grade. James enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 17 and served from 1954-1957 during the Korean Conflict, where he was stationed in Germany before being honorably discharged. He was a lifetime member of the Kickapoo American Legion.

James was a welder for Rockwell in Atchison, KS for 16 years till he retired from there. Jim then worked for the Kickapoo Tribe for 10 years before working for the V.A. in Topeka, KS. He then transferred employment with the Facilities Maintenance Department at Haskell Indian Nations University until he retired in June 2002.

He was a member of the Kickapoo Tribe and member of the Drum Religion. He married Donnis Oliver July 22, 1966 in Horton, KS. She preceded him in death November 10, 2016.

Survivors include, six daughters, Eleanor Banks, Tina (Ray) Wahwasuck, Shirley Keo, Juell (Chris) Tucker, Wanda Keo, and Sonya (Willie) Banks all of Horton, Kansas; two sons, James "Mokie" (April) Keo, Jr. and Carl Thomas also of Horton, Kansas; two brothers, John Thomas and Augie Thomas of Horton, KS; and sister, Lythia Thomas of Horton, KS; nineteen grandchildren and 51 great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Theodore Masquat and Keith Keo.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, July 18, 2020 at the Kickapoo Community Building.  Masks are suggested and will be provided at services, although wearing of the masks is optional. Memorials are suggested in his name and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary, 909 Central Ave. Horton, KS 66439.