Thomas Francis Keating

Thomas Francis Keating, 97, of Billings, Montana, passed away on May 14, 2026. Born on November 26, 1928, in Langdon, North Dakota, to Delbert and Olive Keating,

Tom grew up surrounded by a large and loving family and carried that sense of devotion with him throughout his remarkable life.

Tom served his country in the United States Air Force from 1944 to 1947. Following his military service, he pursued his education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Portland, Oregon, where he met the love of his life, Anna Lou "Luke" Walsh. The two were married in Spokane, Washington, and together they built a life defined by faith, family, and service. Tom and Luke settled in Billings, Montana, where they raised their five children.

Tom built a distinguished career in the oil and gas industry, founding Cherry Creek Oil Co., where his expertise in leasing and drilling earned him wide respect. His commitment to public service led him to the Montana State Senate in Helena, where he served with distinction for twenty years. Among his many legislative accomplishments, Tom was most proud of his work reforming Montana's welfare system, a legacy that reflected his deep concern for the well-being of others.

Loved affectionately by his wife and children, Tom was a man whose warmth, infectious smile, and sharp sense of humor drew people to him. Everyone simply loved Tom. He was passionate about his family above all else, cherishing time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He also enjoyed golf and snow skiing throughout his life.

Tom was a devout Catholic whose faith guided every aspect of his life. He was a dedicated member of Saint Thomas Church and an active participant in the Knights of Columbus, giving

generously of his time through volunteer work in the community. His unwavering devotion to the Lord and the Catholic Church stood as a testament to the values he held most dear.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anna Lou "Luke" Keating; his parents, Delbert and Olive Keating; sons Patrick and Terence Keating; and brothers Joseph, Patrick, Terry, Tim, Jerry Keating and brother-in-law, Mike Wyrwas.

Tom is survived by his sons, Thomas Joseph "TJ" Keating (Kim) and Michael Keating (Barb), his daughter, Kathryn "Cabbie" Keating (Joe), his daughter-in-law, Mary Keating, his brother Michael Keating (Jean), his sister Kathy Wyrwas, his sisters-in-law Janet, Wendy, Renee, Janet, Annie and his cherished grandchildren: Chris, Corey, Collin, Katy, Michael, Joseph, Issac, Hannah, and Emma.

Services: Rosary 5:40 pm, Vigil 6:00 pm, June 4, 2026, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on June 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Thomas Church, reception lunch to follow. Graveside services will take place at 2pm, after the reception, at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus, Billings, MT.