Keith Stephen Relich, aged 61, died in Kenosha, WI, on September 25, 2024. Keith was born at St. Catherine’s Hospital in Kenosha on June 10th, 1963. He is survived by his parents Stephen and Joanne Relich of Kenosha, WI, and siblings Mark (Autumne) Relich of Richmond, KY; Elizabeth (Michael) Renner of Pleasant Prairie, WI; Michael (Sarah) Relich of Waukesha, WI; Eric (Diana) Relich of Kenosha, WI. He was an uncle to 13 nieces and nephews, 1 nephew-in-law, and 2 great-nephews. Keith is also survived by Aunt Carole (Mark) Hoefling, Aunt Kathy Stock, Aunt Geri Ann (David) Driggers, Aunt Claudette (Tim) Schaad, and numerous cousins and relatives.
Keith lived life with a spirit of adventure, courage, and perseverance. As the oldest of 5, his childhood was filled with memorable family activities, vacations, and fun experiences. He loved exploring the outdoors from an early age, especially visits to his grandparents’ farm in northern Wisconsin. After graduating from Tremper High School, Keith completed basic training at Rantoul Air Force Base in Illinois. Following an honorable discharge from the US Air Force, he attended Gateway Technical College and then moved to Minneapolis, MN where he worked as a driver for the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Eventually, he returned to Kenosha where he gained new life experiences working for a commercial restoration and remodeling company, Dairyland Greyhound Track, and various private security jobs.
Over the years Keith developed an appreciation for music, motorcycles, cars, bowling, art, and writing. His love for all things vintage and classic reflected his creative nature. Music became his life-long passion. Keith enjoyed listening to his extensive music collection of vinyl records and CDs through his customized high-end audio system.
Keith loved God and cared for the souls of loved ones and strangers. He enjoyed finding, creating, and sharing thoughtful, unique, and personalized gifts. These gifts included Keith’s original artwork and poems. He also enjoyed spending time at the Kenosha Senior Center, interacting with his neighbors, and deepening his faith.
Keith’s parents and siblings wish to express heartfelt appreciation to the many people who showed care and compassion for him during his time on this Earth. The special people who recognized and acknowledged his golden heart include extended family, friends, neighbors, and various healthcare workers and physicians.
Keith is preceded in death by Grandparents Steve and Jane Relich, Marcella and Jerry Johnson, Pauline Relich, and Edward and Tyne Ekstrom. Other relatives include Uncle Larry Ekstrom, Uncle Tom Swanson, Uncle Mike Stock, Uncle Kenny and Aunt Alice Ekstrom, Aunt Jean Coopman, Uncle Jim and Aunt Patty Relich, and Cousin Joe Sterny.
Through how he lived his life, the lesson Keith taught is to face any obstacles you encounter head-on, and “Never Give Up”!
A private family funeral service and burial was held at Green Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial donations to NAMI Kenosha County, P.O. Box 631 Kenosha, WI 53140, and the American Diabetes Association.