Keathen “KJ” Jacob Cogswell was born on June 29, 1997, arriving six weeks premature with twin sister Kennedy. From the day he was born, Keathen was a brave and strong boy. He passed away peacefully on March 27, 2021. He lived 23 years with cerebral palsy supported by his loving family and many caregivers.

His pre-school and after school hours were enjoyed at Children’s Respite Care Center. He attended Gretna Schools from kindergarten until graduation. Keathen’s smile and laughter filled the room with love and gratitude; he made an impression on many hearts during his lifetime. Not only was Keathen able to learn from his teachers/paras/therapists/peers, he was also able to TEACH all of them about love, kindness, and compassion.

During his time in high school, Keathen was able to participate in the fine arts. He attended band practice, choir, and even got messy doing art projects. He loved getting dressed [up] for Homecoming and Prom, attending independently and smiling the entire time when he rolled across the stage for graduation.

Keathen had a very active life outside of school and work. He attended many sporting events of his siblings, cheering from the sideline with his loud, boisterous voice. His parents were passionate advocates seeking opportunities to experience new things and develop new skills. His favorite therapies were the Dynavox communications device, aqua therapy, and riding horses at HETRA Equine Therapy in Gretna during the warmer months.

Love of family and country music were constants throughout his life. Keathen is survived by his parents: Jeff & Amy Cogswell and Joanna & Kirk Vander Linden; siblings: Tyler (fiancé Kelsey), Kennedy, Kate, Sam, and Jack all of Omaha; grandparents: Charles & Gwenda Cogswell and Norma Knoble of Friend, NE, Bev Novak of Pender, NE, and Ron Vander Linden of Des Moines, IA; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and caregivers.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Jerry Knoble, Curt Novak, and Linda Vander Linden; uncles: Randy Cogswell and Randy Novak.

Memorials to the family for later designation.