Lowell R. Keator

Lowell R. Keator, 86, of Pueblo, Colo., passed away Oct. 17, 2007. Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Neva; sister, Eleanor Burton; and brothers, Wallace and Duane Keator. Survived by his eight children, Norman (Alice) Keator, Albuquerque, NM, Michael (Susan) Keator, Tempe, AZ, Sarah MacClary, Junction City, OR, Charlotte (Michael Boyd) Keator, Centennial, CO, Paul (Denise) Keator and James (Mary-Ann) Keator, both of Vineland, Frances (Tom) Beaudette, Model, CO, and Jeanne (Steve) Stewart, Pueblo; thirty-two grandchildren (two deceased); eighteen great-grandchildren; in-laws, Antoinette Keator, Delores Keator, Warren Picklum, Laura Tyner, Martha Canum, Luanna (Peter) Golinski; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. The son of pioneers who homesteaded north of Ordway, Lowell was born to Raymond and Lucille Keator on April 30, 1921, in Pueblo, CO. Although he was classified 4F, he answered the call of his country to serve in WWII as a pharmacy technician, landing on Omaha Beach on D-Day + 3 and was eventually attached to General Patton's army. After being honorably discharged on March 16, 1946, he returned home and he and Neva were married on April 6, 1947. Lowell attended CU Boulder, majoring in Chemistry and playing football. He worked for CF&I Steel as a metallurgical engineer for 43 years while still maintaining his farm in Vineland. He and Neva raised their children with much love, instilled a deep personal faith in God and responsibility. He was a member of Grace Community Church where he served as a deacon for many years. Viewing from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. today at the funeral home with the family present from 4 until 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2007, at Grace Community Church, 1405 25th Lane. Military honors by Pueblo Veterans' Ritual Team and interment will follow at Roselawn Cemetery. A celebration of Lowell's life will be held immediately following the interment at the church. Online condolences, www.montgomerysteward.com ******