Keith J. Gentzen, 85, longtime resident of Edison Park, passed away on August 24, 2023.
He was born Keith John Gentzen on May 10, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, the youngest of two children, to Fred and Mildred nee Ring Gentzen.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ron Gentzen.
He leaves behind his wife, Carolyn nee Musgrove; son, Mark (Debby) Gentzen of Portland, OR; son, Shane (Ginna) Gentzen of Chicago, IL; and cherished grandchildren, Alison, Kendall, Morgan, Brooke, and Jake.
Keith grew up in the Lake View neighborhood of Chicago, IL with his older brother, Ron. He was fond of his high school years, spending his nights at Riverview Amusement Park or working as crew member with his car racing team.
He followed in his father’s footsteps, working in the trades, first as a Laborer and then as a Union Carpenter for the Chicago Public Schools.
He was a family man first, but also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and home improvement projects. His garden was admired by neighbors and provided a bounty of fresh vegetables.
Keith was a good and loyal friend to many, willing to help whenever needed and always ready to brighten your day with his never-ending supply of jokes. He was a member of the Swedish Gymnastic Club on Pistakee Lake with many family friends originating from that group.
After retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and traveling with his wife of almost 60-years, spending the colder months in Puerta Vallarta, Mexico and Florida.
His presence in our lives will be sorely missed.
A memorial service will take place Saturday, September 2, 2023, at the M J Suerth Funeral Home, 6754 N. Northwest Hwy., Chicago. Family and friends gather from 11:00 am until the time of service, 12:30 pm. The Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to your charity of choice.
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