Gerald John Keeton

Through his deep brown eyes this was Gary’s life….. Born June 19, 1950 to Robert and Mildred Keeton in Prineville, Oregon the family moved to Madras to build their family farm. Gary attended both Metolius and Madras schools where he enjoyed baseball and wrestling. He married his high school sweetheart Kathy Herbster to whom they had been married 54 years. The two best things he would say that had happened in his lifetime were the birth of his son Erik and daughter Angie. His work career was from electronics, to law enforcement and final the majority of his career before retirement was in the agricultural industry. Wherever there was a red piece of farm equipment there he was! Travel was always an exciting piece of his life. Always the two soulmates enjoyed seeing parts of different cultures and natures beauty in New Zealand, Europe, Alaska, Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico and the US. There were many Sunday afternoon drives through acres of country farm land near home. The times with just the family of four camping, the mountains, the place at the beach were the best. There were numerous times with the kids but the ones he liked to share the most were motorcycle riding and hunting with Erik and the deep sea fishing with Angie and that special father/daughter dance at her wedding. A very favorite trip was the trip to Disney World the whole family (all 10 of us) parents, kids, and grand kids..what wonderful memories. Taking a leap of faith retiring, selling the house, and moving to Ajijic, Jalisco Mexico for 7 plus years was an adventure in itself. An experience that held a lot of great memories, wonderful people, but reinforced how fortunate he was to be an American. But most of all the final trip was coming home to the PNW to be with family. Back to his roots of where his life began. Generations who will follow him later and who were most priceless and precious in his life is his wife Kathy, son Erik (partner Melanie) Keeton, daughter Angie (Phil) Johnson, brother Ken, 4 grand children and 1 great-granddaughter, and numerous family members and relationships built over the years. With those loving memories is the legacy to remember him by. Those who have long awaited Gary’s arrival in heaven with the Lord were his son Bryan, parents and brother Den, along with loving family and his 4 legged companions. In lieu of flowers he would ask to support the kidney research foundation or the Alzheimer's foundation or any charity of choice. We thank the Providence Hospice Group and Ivy Court staff. The Gary Keeton family thanks all who walked with Gary during his journey in life and as a remembrance to live each moment as it is right now. Our beloved rest in peace.

Gerald John Keeton

June 19, 1950 - October 30, 2022