B. Keith Hackleman Jr.

B. Keith Hackleman, Jr., a resident of Rochester, NY, passed away at Unity Hospital on Friday, April 18, 2025.

Born on April 15, 1943, in Williamsport, IN, to Burr K. and M. Mildred (Griffith) Hackleman, he relocated with his family to Vandalia, IL, in 1952. He earned a BA in Communications from Southern Illinois University and later an MFA in Photography from Ohio University. His distinguished 35-year career at Eastman Kodak included roles as an instructor at the Marketing Education Center and in financial operations for the Eastern Region

He had a diverse array of passions, including photography, steam trains, model railroads, geology, travel, electronics, and, perhaps most affectionately, cats.

Keith's background in photography provided him with opportunities to showcase his work both locally and nationally, including in publications and books. He had a remarkable talent for blending his photographs with his personal interests. His boys cherish the memories of travelling all over the US and “chasing” steam trains to get the perfect shot.

A self-taught electronics enthusiast, Keith was creating, designing, and selling custom audio kits to modelers around the world until recent years. His creativity and dedication remained unwavering until the very end, as he devoted himself to gardening and model trains, developing innovative techniques for building scenery.

He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Phyllis A. (Clem) Hackleman of Rochester, NY, as well as his two sons: Brian K. Hackleman (wife Laurie) of Rochester, NY, and Brady K. Hackleman (wife Jennifer) of Ashland, VA.

Grandchildren: Christopher B. Hackleman (Rochester, NY), Jenna T. Hackleman (Guelph, Ontario), Michael C. Hackleman (Columbus, OH) and his wife, Mackenzie, and Greta R. Hackleman (Ashland, VA).

A private celebration of life will be planned for a future date

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:

Friends of the East Broad Top Railroad: www.febt.org

Friends of the East Broad Top is dedicated to the preservation, restoration and interpretation of the East Broad Top Railroad, a registered US National Historic Landmark located in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania.

Next Restoration Projects:

· Extend the March to Saltillo

· Proceed with the exterior reconstruction of the Saltillo Station

· Continuing the Rockhill Furnace Shops Restoration

· Continue the work to preserve and make accessible the EBT Archives

· Support the restoration of Locomotive 15’s Trailing Truck

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Pet Pride of New York: www.petprideny.org

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Pet Pride saves the lives of homeless cats in our community by providing shelter, veterinary care, and placement into loving adoptive homes.

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