Keith Skippen

Keith is survived by his children: Linda Selk of Milk River, Donna Brower of Medicine Hat, son in law, Larry Ainscough of Coaldale; grandchildren Rhonda Wolske (Matt) of Calgary, Tanya Selk of Swift Current, Gordon Ainscough (Stacey) of Coalhurst, Amber Ainscough of Coaldale, Jennifer Kobly (Travis) of Medicine Hat, Cole Brower (Marissa) of Medicine Hat, and great grandchildren: Hailey Goebel (Chase), Carter Wolske (Meli), Lucas Selk (Haylee), Claire Ainscough, Elliott Ainscough, Gannon Kobly, Levi Kobly, Brinley Gretzinger, and Easton Gretzinger.

Besides his beloved wife Helen of 70 years, Keith was predeceased by his parents Melvin and Elizabeth Skippen, brothers Ralph Skippen and Dale Skippen, daughter Connie Ainscough, sons in law Loren Brower and Clark Selk; and grandsons Joel Ainscough and Brad Selk.

Keith was born in Drumheller, Alberta, on November 19, 1928. As a young boy, Keith dreamed of being a cowboy, but he found his true calling as a farmer, cultivating a deep love for the land that lasted his lifetime. His days were filled with hard work and dedication, and even into retirement, he found joy in tending his garden, gradually downsizing it but always nurturing his final passion for growing tomato plants.

At the age of fourteen, after his mother passed away, Keith ventured to Brawley, California to live with his uncle and aunt, yet his heart led him back to Alberta. He joined the seismic crew, which eventually brought him to Milk River. It was there, on a May long weekend, that he saw a beautiful young lady at a gas station—a chance encounter that sparked a lifetime of love. Just four months later, he married Helen, the true love of his life. Together, they built their lives, starting in a one-bedroom home on the Hawkeye Ranch Homestead before moving to a new home that Keith helped to build near their original homestead, marked only by a single windmill. It was there that they raised three beautiful daughters. As they entered their later years, Keith and Helen retired to the Town of Milk River, where he once again assisted in building their home. Each day together was cherished, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.

Keith lived with a gentle heart and a kind spirit, always ready with a smile, quick wit, or wise word. His life advice was simple yet profound: “Do you want to be happy? Then be happy.” He embodied this message daily, filling his world with love, laughter, and joy for family and life.

Beyond farming, Keith was a skilled woodworker, especially fond of scroll saw projects, creating pieces that his family will cherish for years to come. His love of nature extended to camping, where he enjoyed the great outdoors. Known for his lucky hand at cards, particularly in cribbage, he played nearly every day, relishing friendly competition and camaraderie. Happy hour was one of his favourite times, a chance to relax, share a drink, and swap stories with family and friends, bringing everyone together with his warmth, laughter, and endless stories.

Keith had a deep appreciation for farm-fresh, wholesome meals, savouring the simple pleasure of food grown from the land he loved. With a lifelong sweet tooth, he had a special love for chocolate, enjoying it in every form—especially in his favourite chocolate flapper pie. He loved sharing these meals and treats with family and friends, creating moments of warmth and connection around the table. To those who knew him, a meal with Keith wasn’t complete without a touch of chocolate and a shared laugh.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at ST. PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH – 321 Main Street, Milk River, AB, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Pawel Andrasz O.M.I. celebrating. Following the Memorial Mass, Keith will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife Helen during a private family graveside service.

In honour of Keith, please raise a glass, share a beverage, and swap stories with loved ones. Celebrate his life and cherish his memory by recalling the laughter, wisdom, and joy he brought to those around him. His spirit lives on in every shared moment, every game of cribbage, every happy hour, and every bit of chocolate enjoyed in his name.