Keith T. Downs, 96 of Jefferson, WI, died peacefully on November 25, 2017 at his home with his family.

Keith was born in a log cabin (in the woods) on May 22, 1921, in Fern Creek, KY, the son of Vassel and Helen (Kurtz) Downs. He was a 1940 graduate of Fern Creek High School and on July 4, 1964, he married Lois Tucker at Holy Cross Catholic Church of Euclid, OH.  The couple spent their married life in Jefferson, WI on his own farm.  Keith told his family that he left his father’s farm in 1955, for a piece of land of his own.  He headed north and came as far as Wisconsin.  He appreciated the land value of the area and loved the rich, black earth, but always considered Kentucky his home.  He loved every aspect of farming and being outdoors.  He is described as humble and hardworking.  His family was the most precious part of his life. In his 70’s, he took up pie baking and was a lifelong rose gardener.  His woodworking was a notable talent and his rocking horse submissions won multiple prizes at the Jefferson County Fair.  He had a charming sense of humor, was a great storyteller, and had a reliable memory.  Keith was content in every stage of his life; a true rarity and a testament to his character.  He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by: his Children David (Shannon) of Roberts, WI, Demetria Lueneburg of Hudson, WI, and Daniel of Superior, WI; Grandchildren Patrick, Abby, James, Joey, and Sophia; Siblings Demetria Downs of Louisville, KY, Jean Ott of Kansas City, MO, Donnie (Ninia) of Louisville, KY, Jimmy (Fran) of Louisville, KY, Carol Logsdon of Upper Sandusky, OH, and Deborah (Ronn) Hauss of Prospect, KY.  Keith is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents, wife in 2008, Sister Betty Bentley, and 3 Brothers Morrison, Billy, and Paul

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church of Jefferson with Fr. Tom Coyle presiding.  Visitation will be on Tuesday from 9:00AM until the time of service at the church.  Keith will be laid to rest at St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery following the service.

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