Keenans Jewelry: A Montana Love Story Forged in Gold and Community In 1971, a legendary tale of love, courage, and family was etched into Montana history. The story of Keenan Jewelers, born in Butte, is more than a business origin; it's a testament to family devotion and resilience that continues to shine brightly, 49 years later, in Kalispell. The journey of Keenan Jewelers is as precious as the diamonds they craft. David and Terry Burt, who now own and operate Keenan's Jewelry in Kalispell, built more than a thriving business-they built a legacy. It all began with Jim and Shirley Keenan, David's parents, who opened Keenan's Jewelry in Butte in 1971. Jim Keenan's path to jewelry-making was shaped by grit and determination. At just 13, he began an apprenticeship in the trade, learning the art of craftsmanship while attending school. His passion was interrupted by his honorable military service during World War II and the Korean War. Upon returning home, Jim worked tirelessly in the mines, saving every penny to make his dream of owning a jewelry store a reality. This commitment to hard work and family became the cornerstone of the Keenan legacy. David Burt, Jim's son, started his own journey at 14, running deliveries for the store in Butte. By 1975, love and business intertwined when David and Terry visited Kalispell on their honeymoon. They decided to carry on the family tradition in the Flathead Valley, and with help from David's sister Rita and brother- in-law Dave, they launched Keenan's Jewelry in Kalispell. The store's heart lies not just in its dazzling jewelry but in the family bonds it fosters. Generations of customers visit Keenan's, drawn by the care, honesty, and artistry they offer. From custom wedding rings to intricate repairs, every piece tells a story-of love, celebration, and trust. The Burt family takes pride in creating a welcoming environment. Walking into Keenan's feels like entering a family gathering. Customers are greeted warmly, sometimes by David and Terry's five granddaughters, who might offer you a handmade piece of artwork for $1a charming nod to the next generation of entrepreneurs. David and Terry's son Nathan is now a third-generation jeweler, handling the store's most complex projects, while their daughter Amanda greets customers with expert guidance, ensuring every visitor feels confident and cared for. Keenan's is more than a jewelry store; it's a community pillar. Whether designing a custom engagement ring or helping a grandmother pass down heirloom pieces, their focus remains on people. Customers return not just for the quality of the jewelry but for the genuine relationships formed over the years. The Burt family's legacy extends beyond their store. They're champions of local business, exemplifying how a family-run establishment can uplift an entire community. Honest practices, transparent pricing, and a deep love for Montana's people and culture are the foundation of Keenan's Jewelry. If you're in Kalispell, stop by Keenan's Jewelrynot just for exquisite craftsmanship but for a slice of Montana history. You'll leave not just with a piece of jewelry but with a story worth treasuring. In a world that often feels fleeting, Keenan's Jewelry remains a timeless reminder of family, love, and communitythe true gems of Montana. Keenans Jewelry : A Montana Love Story Forged in Gold and Community In 1971 , a legendary tale of love , courage , and family was etched into Montana history . The story of Keenan Jewelers , born in Butte , is more than a business origin ; it's a testament to family devotion and resilience that continues to shine brightly , 49 years later , in Kalispell . The journey of Keenan Jewelers is as precious as the diamonds they craft . David and Terry Burt , who now own and operate Keenan's Jewelry in Kalispell , built more than a thriving business - they built a legacy . It all began with Jim and Shirley Keenan , David's parents , who opened Keenan's Jewelry in Butte in 1971 . Jim Keenan's path to jewelry - making was shaped by grit and determination . At just 13 , he began an apprenticeship in the trade , learning the art of craftsmanship while attending school . His passion was interrupted by his honorable military service during World War II and the Korean War . Upon returning home , Jim worked tirelessly in the mines , saving every penny to make his dream of owning a jewelry store a reality . This commitment to hard work and family became the cornerstone of the Keenan legacy . David Burt , Jim's son , started his own journey at 14 , running deliveries for the store in Butte . By 1975 , love and business intertwined when David and Terry visited Kalispell on their honeymoon . They decided to carry on the family tradition in the Flathead Valley , and with help from David's sister Rita and brother- in - law Dave , they launched Keenan's Jewelry in Kalispell . The store's heart lies not just in its dazzling jewelry but in the family bonds it fosters . Generations of customers visit Keenan's , drawn by the care , honesty , and artistry they offer . From custom wedding rings to intricate repairs , every piece tells a story - of love , celebration , and trust . The Burt family takes pride in creating a welcoming environment . Walking into Keenan's feels like entering a family gathering . Customers are greeted warmly , sometimes by David and Terry's five granddaughters , who might offer you a handmade piece of artwork for $ 1 a charming nod to the next generation of entrepreneurs . David and Terry's son Nathan is now a third - generation jeweler , handling the store's most complex projects , while their daughter Amanda greets customers with expert guidance , ensuring every visitor feels confident and cared for . Keenan's is more than a jewelry store ; it's a community pillar . Whether designing a custom engagement ring or helping a grandmother pass down heirloom pieces , their focus remains on people . Customers return not just for the quality of the jewelry but for the genuine relationships formed over the years . The Burt family's legacy extends beyond their store . They're champions of local business , exemplifying how a family - run establishment can uplift an entire community . Honest practices , transparent pricing , and a deep love for Montana's people and culture are the foundation of Keenan's Jewelry . If you're in Kalispell , stop by Keenan's Jewelry not just for exquisite craftsmanship but for a slice of Montana history . You'll leave not just with a piece of jewelry but with a story worth treasuring . In a world that often feels fleeting , Keenan's Jewelry remains a timeless reminder of family , love , and community the true gems of Montana .