In Memoriam: Jerry Keown

OMAHA, Neb. — Jerry Keown, a pioneering figure in the pest management industry and former vice president of Presto-X, passed away on Saturday. He was 86.

Keown, along with business partner Ward Combs II, helped grow Omaha, Neb.-based Presto-X (later purchased by Rentokil) into one of the largest pest control businesses in the United States. Beyond playing a key role in Presto-X’s success, Keown was a longtime advocate for small businesses and was an active member on the National Pest Management Association's (NPMA's) government affairs committee for 35 years. In 2007, he was honored with the FMC Legislative Day Award for his advocacy and contributions to the advancement of the industry.

Keown’s nearly 50-year career with Presto-X included serving in a variety of positions, starting as a technician servicing grain bins in western Nebraska.

After a brief departure in 1966, he returned in 1967 to take on the role of sales manager. A decade later, in 1977, he and business partner Ward Combs II purchased Presto-X from Ward Combs Sr. Under their leadership, the company grew into one of the nation’s largest independently owned pest control firms, employing more than 300 people and operating in more than 20 states.

Combs, who worked in operations, told PCT that he and Keown (sales) complemented each other well — they were both focused on taking care of their associates and clients. “If we didn’t take care of our associates we wouldn’t have had clients, and if we didn’t have clients we wouldn’t have had a need for associates," he said. "We held a number of retirement parties for 30- and 35-year employees, and I know that is something we were both very proud of.”

In 2009, Keown retired and reflected on his time at Presto-X and in the industry “has been a most rewarding experience. Few people have had the opportunities to grow individually or professionally as I have with this company.”

Post-retirement, Keown remained active in the pest management community. He served on numerous industry boards and associations, including NPMA and Nebraska Pest Management Association.

PCT will provide memorial information as it becomes available.