John Carl Kees

John Carl Kees, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and minister, passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 84. Born in Nanty-Glo, Pennsylvania, on December 14, 1940, John lived a life marked by service, faith, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.

A bright and determined young man, John graduated from Dartmouth College in 1962 with a degree in engineering, earned on an academic scholarship. His call to serve led him to the U.S. Navy, where he served on both submarines and destroyers. John loved his time in the Navy, especially serving on submarines, where he thrived in the unique camaraderie and challenges of underwater missions. John was serving on the USS Bugara (SS-331), which was docked in Bremerton, Washington, when he met Pamela Helene Southerland, the love of his life. The two soon married and John began serving on the USS Carpenter (DDE-825) shortly after. The Carpenter was a Gearing class destroyer stationed in Hawaii. John and Pam’s partnership spanned six decades. Together, they raised four children, instilling in them the values of faith and compassion.

After his naval service, John pursued a Master’s in Divinity from Methodist Theological School in Ohio, graduating in 1969, while Pam taught kindergarten. After his first appointment at Grace Church in Tacoma, WA, John went on to serve as a minister with the United Methodist Church in the Western Pennsylvania Conference for 30 years. In 1981, he earned a Doctorate of Divinity from Drew University, further deepening his theological insight. He faithfully led congregations at Homestead Park, Pitcairn, Crafton, and West Middlesex, the latter of which he served from 1986 until his retirement in 2006.

John and Pam moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2006, to be closer to family. He embraced his role as a full-time grandpa to his seven grandchildren with the same enthusiasm he brought to all of his previous endeavors. His retirement days were filled with the logistics of transporting his grandchildren to their various appointments, practices, and sporting events, and he truly enjoyed watching them grow into wonderful individuals.

In Albuquerque, John and Pam became active members of Central United Methodist Church. In 2008 he was persuaded to accept a part-time pastoral position with Central UMC. There, he assisted with various ministerial duties and led biblical studies courses, continuing to share his wisdom and faith. During the many years he lived in Albuquerque, John enjoyed volunteering at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. He delighted in the vibrant ballooning community and was always happy to share his enthusiasm about the balloon fiesta with family and friends.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela, three of their four children, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and a legacy of kindness and faith that will live on in all who knew him.

Burial will be held at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on April 10, 2025, followed by Celebration of Life memorial service on April 12, 2025, at 11am at Central United Methodist Church in Albuquerque, NM. All who knew John are invited to attend.