Dennis Lee Keith

Dennis lee Keith, 79, of Bolivar died Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at Veteran's Home in Mount Vernon. Dennis was born on March 10, 1939, the son of Harold and Clara Keith in San Bernardino, California where he grew up with his younger brother, Gary. Dennis graduated in 1957 from Pacific High School in San Bernardino. He then moved to San Diego, California where he worked for the California State Division of Highways. He completed two years of college before he met the love of his life, Nancy Rea. He knew he was going to marry her on their first date. They were engaged after only 3 X months on April 27, 1962 and married on September 22, 1962 in Nancy's hometown of East Liverpool, Ohio. Dennis was drafted into the army and had to leave right after the honeymoon. After basic training he was stationed at Ft Riley, Kansas where they had their first child, Michael. Dennis was promoted to Sergeant E5 in less than 2 years. After serving in the army, they returned to San Diego where he went back to the California State Division of Highways. They had their second child, Karen, in 1966 in San Diego. A few weeks later they moved to Garden Grove, California where he worked as an engineer. He later started his own business, Keith's Pool Service, where he was respected by all for his integrity and knowledge. He was a brilliant and kind man, loved by all, and would always help those in need. His son, Michael, worked with him, learned the trade, and started his own company. After the kids were grown they sold their house and business and retired at the age of 55, moving to Bolivar in 1994. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Clara, and his brother Gary. He is survived by his wife; Nancy, of 56 years, children Michael and Karen and her husband Randy, adoptive son Aaron, grandchildren; Kristine and her boyfriend John and Joshua and his wife Hailly, and 2 great grandchildren. Family and friends may share memories or leave condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer's Association or Intrepid Hospice in Springfield, Missouri at 4305 s. National Ave, Springfield, Missouri 65810. Internment will be at 12:00 P.M., on December 14, 2018, at Springfield Veterans Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri. A Celebration of Life will be at 2:00 P.M. at The Keiths Residence.

Dennis Lee Keith

March 10, 1939 - November 20, 2018