David Edward Keith

David Edward Keith, 78, of Bend, succumbed to compound health related complications in the comfort of his family and friends on June 28.

David was born in Los Altos, California, and remained in the Bay Area until he and his wife, Diane, made a trip in 1981 to visit a very dear friend, Byron Blake, in Sisters. Upon returning from that trip both he and Diane promised themselves to find a way to move to Central Oregon over the following years. They have now called Central Oregon home for 30-plus years.

David is survived by his wife of 40 years, Diane; son, Mark; daughter in-law, Nichole; grandchildren, Jakoby and Nicholas; several loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

David was a loving father, husband, grandfather, brother, patriot and friend to everyone he met.

David loved sports, especially baseball, which he continued to play into his 70s. He was able to play and share his love of baseball with his brother, Dennis. His teammates loved playing for him and frequently called him “Skip” as the coach and captain of their teams. His favorite professional team was the Seattle Mariners. He also enjoyed watching the San Francisco 49ers!

He worked at IBM for over 35 years holding several positions within the organization and retired as a quality assurance engineer.

David served his country in the Army National Guard from 1960 thru 1961.

David loved to spend his free time discussing politics, meteorology, dancing, listening to jazz music and talking on the fence line of his ranch outside of Sisters, with his closest friends and family. At the end of a long day, David loved settling down at night with his family on the porch, discussing the end of the universe and what may lie beyond that which we cannot imagine.

A special thank-you to Tony Andrews, who provided the most amazing help to the family during these difficult times and in helping David with doctor visits, trips to class reunions, unparalleled care, guidance and truly being a great friend. We would also like to thank David Tolle and his staff at Absolute Serenity in Central Oregon for their loving care and support during his final months. Dave is also truly a wonderful person and took great care of David as well. Lastly, the family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude toward Kevin Korn at Niswonger-Reynolds Funeral Home for being very accommodating and understanding during this difficult

time.

A graveside service will be had when David is laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery, 1500 Mission Rd, Colma, California, on Monday, July 15 from 3 to 4 p.m. A celebration of life will follow in Bend in late July. Details to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice if you feel so obliged.