Woodward, Keith Alan
68, of Phoenix, Arizona, "…slipped the surly bonds of earth…and touched the face of God" at Ryan House Hospice Home early Saturday, July 30, 2016. In 1955, his family moved to Phoenix from Topeka, Kansas, where Keith was born on July 8, 1948. He was on the wrestling team at Phoenix Union High School, where he also enjoyed Rodeo Club, taking that interest with him to East High School where he participated in Student Senate and graduated with the first class there in 1966. Keith was in the U.S. Air Force from 1968-1972 and attended the prestigious Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center in Monterey, CA, prior to a posting in Berlin where he conducted U.S. intelligence-gathering. Following his service, Keith attended ASU before accepting a position at Scottsdale Conference Center, eventually becoming general manager and then operations manager for the parent organization, International Conference Resorts, over a 28-year career. Late to parenthood, Keith transitioned to local real estate which gave him more time with his children. He delighted in spending time with all of the little ones, surrounding them with animals of all kinds and building a tree house for their enjoyment…and his! A photography hobbyist, Keith also collected signed 1st Editions of contemporary American authors and was a fierce negotiator to the end. More recently, his early mornings were nearly always spent hiking the deserts north of Scottsdale with his dog Bentley before diving into another day's work. Best Air Force buddy, Cal Robinson, called Keith "a very generous person, quick to laugh" who also enjoyed debating politics and science, and sharing a good joke. Keith was proceeded in death by his parents, Tom and Hazel, and his niece Robin. Surviving are his beloved children Jalen (14) and Janika (13); treasured step-children Janessa (21) and Dante (18) and their mother Ashley Oliveira with whom Keith remained close; also older brother Craig (wife Linda, children Crystal and Travis); and sister Kay. The family suggests donations to Hospice of the Valley. Arrangements by Messenger Mortuary.
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5 Entries
Deepest sympathies to Keith's family and children during this very difficult time. May he rest in peace and may God provide the strength for his family with faith, loving memories and cherished times.
With our deepest condolences.
Matt & Cindy Rosbrook
August 8, 2016
So sad to hear the world lost another good man. I worked for Keith at Scottsdale Conference Resort for many years. He was stern but fair and I learned a lot of life's lessons under his tutorage. Later, I bought Keith's Harley Davidson when he decided trade up. He was kind and patient with me when I "dropped" it while trying it out in the driveway. I was mortified but ended up buying the bike anyway because he was so nice about it. RIP old friend. Condolences to his family.
Mary Grant
August 8, 2016
Condolences to Keith and his family...remember Keith well, nice guy, loved Scottsdale Conference Resort, and was a friend to everybody.
Dave Wells
August 7, 2016
May you rest in peace Keith. Condolences to family and friends for this great loss!
Rhonda Bammer
August 7, 2016
Rest in peace Keith
Brian Altman
August 7, 2016
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