Obituary of Carl Eugene Keith

Carl E. Keith, 67, of Riverside Road in Benton Harbor passed away at POH Regional Medical Center in Pontiac, Michigan late on Thursday, July 1, 2010. Carl was born on November 8, 1942 to the late Roy E. and Elsie M. (New) Keith in Hilltop, Kentucky. Carl was one of 5 children growing up in the Keith household. After graduating from Benton Harbor High School in 1960 Carl joined the United States Army. On April 30, 1965 Carl wed Millie Bachman, together they have 2 children. Carl worked at Auto Specialties in St. Joseph for over 20 years and most recently worked as a truck driver for Gra-Bel out of Holland, Michigan for 6 years until he had to retire due to health issues. He was also a Volunteer Firefighter with the Benton Township Fire Department for over 16 years, former Mason at the Lakeshore Lodge, Life Member of the Berrien Kennel Club where he was past president and past treasurer. Carl loved spending time outdoors with his buddies, including his dogs, hunting and fishing. He is preceded in death by his parents. Carl is survived by his wife Millie, son Brian (Jenifer) Keith of Boynton Beach, Florida, daughter Kimberly Keith of Benton Harbor, Michigan, 4 grandchildren Erin, Adam, Tyler and MacKenzie, sisters Janet (Larry) Thornton of Coloma, Michigan, June (Robert) Patterson of Tipton, Georgia and brothers Jerry (Nancy) Keith of Benton Harbor, Michigan and Samuel Keith of Marquette, Michigan. In keeping with Carl's wishes he has been cremated and the family will be having a service and burial at North Shore Memory Gardens on Friday, July 9, 2010 at 2 p.m. with a gathering to take place afterwards at the American Legion near Carl's house. Those wishing to make memorial donations may do so in Carl's memory to the National Emphysema Foundation at 128 East Avenue; Norwalk, CT 06851 or the Humane Society of South West Michigan at 641 S Crystal Avenue; Benton Harbor, MI 49022.