Keith Ford

Keith R. Ford, age 73, of Staples, passed away at the Lakewood Hospital on Sunday, August 8. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 14, at 2:30 PM, at the Staples Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. There will be a time to visit with the family starting at 1:00. Burial will be at the Evergreen Hill Cemetery.

Keith was born on January 26, 1937, in Wadena, MN, to Keith and Gwendolyn (Hoffmeister) Ford. He grew up in the area and attended school in Staples, graduating in 1956. On October 5, 1957, Keith married Carol Mertens, at Sacred Heart Church in Staples. Through out their 53 years of marriage they lived in Elk River, Anoka, and Coon Rapids, returning to Staples in 2006. Keith worked as a truck driver for nearly 30 years, retiring in 1995. Keith was very active in the Boy Scouts of America as a Scout Master, and was involved in 4H when he was younger.

Keith is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Jody (Gus) Schmiege and Dwain (Sheryl) Ford; 5 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; brother, Bruce (Marlys) Ford; sister, Carol (LeRoy) Dahlvang; mother-in-law, Julia Mertens; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Joe Mertens; and brother and sister-in-law, Bob and LuAnn Mertens.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Home in Staples.