Keith Robert Brown

Keith Robert Brown, 86, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, at his home in Eagle, Idaho, surrounded by the love of his family. A life rich with stories, achievements, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones, Keith left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Born on December 31, 1938, to Lloyd L. Brown and Annie Gray, Keith grew up in the Idaho Falls area. After his mother's passing during his high school years, his father remarried Jewel Passwater, who was affectionately called "Grandma Jewel" and whom Keith held in high regard.

A proud graduate of Idaho Falls High School, Class of 1956, Keith pursued higher education at Idaho State University (ISU), earning both bachelor's and master's degrees in mathematics. While at ISU, he competed as a walk-on for the college track team, excelling in high jump and sprinting events. He taught multiple mathematics classes for ISU.

Keith began his professional career at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) as a nuclear engineer, ultimately dedicating his talents to numerous Department of Energy contractors, including EG&G, SAIC, and Edlow International. He particularly enjoyed his work relocating spent nuclear fuel, which he considered a career highlight. His assignments took him across the country and the world, reflecting his intelligence and dedication to his field.

In 1959, Keith married Alice Ann Bitner. Together, they raised two sons, Doug and Brad, and later welcomed surprise twin daughters, Darcy and Marcy. Though they separated, their bond endured, and Keith reunited with Alice Ann in 1999, lovingly caring for her until her passing in 2000. He made a promise to Alice Ann that he would take care of their children-a promise he kept until his final breath. He provided each of the kids with the opportunity to build and grow their own successful businesses.

Later Keith married Cheryle Watson, with whom he shared the last chapter of his life.

Keith's passions were many: coaching Babe Ruth baseball and grid kid football, running five to six miles daily well into his sixties, golfing as a member of Spurwing Golf Club, and cheering on the Boise State Broncos. He competed in senior track meets and remained a devoted athlete throughout his life.

A survivor of stage 4 salivary gland cancer, Keith faced years of treatment with resilience and determination. His strength through the challenges he endured as a result of cancer were inspiring and a testament to his steadfast nature. In 2019, he was instrumental in getting the INEL recognized as a Special Exposure Cohort in the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program.

A proud friend of Bill W, Keith celebrated 35 years of sobriety, dedicating his life to helping others find their path. He volunteered with Help.org and Corpus Commons, delivering groceries and distributing food cards to those in need. His quiet generosity was felt by many, and his dry humor and sharp intelligence endeared him to all.

Keith spent his final days in his cherished man cave, surrounded by family, watching the Boise State Broncos make history in their first national playoff game. Even as his strength waned, his determination and love for life shone through.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Annie; stepmother, Jewel; brother, David; stepbrother, Mike; wife, Alice Ann; and son, Bradley.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryle; his children, Doug (Gwen), Marcy, and Darcy; grandsons, Douglas and Zachary; and granddaughters, Aliceann, Bradley, and Piper who will all miss him dearly.

Keith was under the care of All Care Hospice and really appreciated their compassion and services.

A viewing will be held Friday, January 10, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon, in Ammon. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Rose Hill Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at a location to be determined.

Keith's life was one of love, perseverance, and quiet strength. In his own words, he only wanted a casket that didn't leak–a testament to his humor and humility. He will be forever loved and deeply missed.