Name: Calling hours for Stuart J. Keys
Start: 2016-05-18T16:00:00.000Z
End: 2016-05-18T18:00:00.000Z
Location: Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC - Sturgeon Bay

Keys, Stuart J.

Stuart J. Keys, an avid sailor, lost his life doing what he loved in the waters of Green Bay on May 14, 2016.

He was born in Lombard, Illinois to James and Alice Keys on September 29, 1956. Stuart spent his childhood in Wheaton, Illinois where he graduated from Wheaton North High School in 1974. Later that spring he moved with his family to Door County living in a home on Sherwood Point Road on the shore of Green Bay. Stuart spent two years studying architecture at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. In 1987, Stuart married Shawn Clarke before they moved to California. Their son, Sam, was born in 1991.

In Sturgeon Bay, Stuart had worked for Palmer Johnson, and his father's architectural firm. While in California, he had worked as project manager for a construction company. In 1998, Stuart and Sam moved back to Wisconsin and lived in De Pere. Stuart worked for various construction companies before retiring as Vice President and estimator at Schmidt Construction Company in Sheboygan four years ago to follow his love of sailing which began in 1967.

He was a member of the Great Lakes Single Handed Society (Solo Sailing Club), and member of the Marinette-Menominee Yacht Club.

Survivors include his son, Sam of Berwyn, IL; his mother, Alice Keys of Sturgeon Bay; sister, Brenda Keys of Sturgeon Bay; his dear friend, Karen Dallman of Sturgeon Bay; step-son, Joe Popour of Green Bay; aunts, Charlotte Beam of New Castle, IN, Martha Keys; several cousin's other friends; and many, many friends.

Stuart was preceded in death by his father, James Keys; uncle, Samuel Keys; aunt, Helen Beam; and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday afternoon, May 18, 2016 at Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay with Rev. Philips Sweet officiating. Burial will be in Bayside Cemetery.

Friends may call at Huehns Funeral Home on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at 1:00 p.m.

"Thousands of miles sailing and racing on the ocean and Great Lakes solo and with his son Sam experiencing tremendous success, breezes taking him to places most only dream of including memorable Bermuda and Brazil. I will miss you forever, Dad."

Guestbook signing, condolences, and sharing of memories may be offered at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Green Bay Press-Gazette from May 17 to May 18, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Stuart Keys

Sponsored by Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC - Sturgeon Bay.

11 Entries

Clark Kent

May 12, 2025

Gone but never forgotten. Stuart was a great friend and person.

Vann Fleming

August 17, 2016

From a fellow singlehander Stewart, I just got the so sad news you left the course before the finish!! But I know right where you are..........in Fiddlers Green where all sailors go when we swallow the anchor and you can bet I'll be right on your transom with an overlap when next we meet for the race around the bouys that will never end!

Dana Keys

May 18, 2016

Stuey, your smile is the same for 59 years, and one that will be missed by so many.
You had a good time, Stu, and so did those around you. I'll miss you, pal.

Dana Keys

May 18, 2016

Stuey, your smile is the same it's been for 59 years, and one that will be so dearly missed by so many.
You had a good time, Stu, and so did those around you. I'll miss you, pal.

Lynnette LeFevre

May 17, 2016

I'm devastated, Stu was the forever kind of guy! We had great Tuesday evening sailing adventures when I had Dr. Phevor's and it was a great thing. Brenda--you and Stu's family have my deep sympathy. I am very sad. Take care. Ozzi

Kylee Rudnick

May 17, 2016

Stu was one of a kind. He was a very honest and sincere person. He was a good listener and gave great advice - very blunt - but non the less great advice. He played a huge roll in the direction and success of my career and I will always be grateful to him. No matter how busy he was, he always took time to help me out. My heart goes out to Sam and the rest of Stu's family. He will be greatly missed!!

Annette Wilkinson

May 17, 2016

Stu will be missed by those who knew and loved him. My sincerest sympathies go out to Sam and the rest of Stu's family. May be rest in peace.

Clark Kent

May 17, 2016

So sorry to hear of Stu's passing how tragic. Many good times were shared and memories that will last forever.Truely a great friend.Rest in peace .

Rev Ron Horkman

May 17, 2016

Stewy; Sheet her in tight and take her UP!!!
The ultimate Sailor.

Revy

Vicki Susen

May 17, 2016

My heartfelt sympathy to Sam on tbe sudden loss of your father. He was a longtime friend of mine. How wonderful that he was doing what he loved when his time came. We had long talks and shared many cocktails together. He was one of the kindest most gentle man I knew. He was always there for me if I needed him. I regret that I will be unable to attend visitation or service because of work. May God be with you at this trying time. If you need anything don't hesitate to ask.

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