Leroy F. Keck, KA8LAR SK 10-10 Number: 34015 Leroy Fayne Keck, 97, passed away on June 13, 2018. He had been in declining health for some time, but remained clear and sharp until his final days. He would say "I'll be ready to go home when I'm tired and my work is done." Weeks before his passing, he told family that he was ready to go home. His work is done. He passed away peacefully in hospice care. Leroy was born on September 26, 1920 in Tazewell, Tennessee. He was the eldest of three children. He was raised in Tennessee, where he later met Ruth Crawford. After his naval service, the pair was married on December 2, 1945. As a sailor in the Navy, Leroy was a master ship fitter. He was always proud of his service to our country in WWII, and remained an active veteran in the Monroe community. As a founding member of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, he remained a faithful member well into his 90's. Upon completion of his service, he and Ruth relocated to Monroe, Michigan to start their family. During this time, Leroy was employed as a pipefitter by Ford Motor Company until his retirement in 1981. He was known for his wise kindness and his happy spirit. To Leroy, every day was a gift from God, and he treated them as such. He could be seen walking at Meijer, whipping up friendly conversation with anyone who would listen. He was a dedicated ham radio hobbyist, and would find great joy in spreading Gods message via email. Leroy is survived by son Michael (Shelia) Keck; granddaughter Elizabeth (Les) Lukacs; great-grandchildren Julia Kinel, Mariska Lukacs, and Antonino Lukacs; grandson Joe Kinel. Leroy was preceded in death by his daughter Barbara Kinel, wife Ruth Keck, and grandson Jonathon Keck. On June 13, 2018, the good lord called Leroy home. Visitation will take place at Rupp Funeral Home in Monroe on Monday, June 18 from 2-8pm. He will lie in state on Tuesday, June 19 at 10am at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church with funeral services at 11am. Burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle, MI under military honors. Online condolences to the family may be made through www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com Published in Monroe News on June 16, 2018 https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/m...x?n=leroy-fayne-keck&pid=189307693&fhid=25506
