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Michael Keel Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Keel
June 24, 2010
On this one year anniversary of the passing of a truly great man, I want Beth and Kate to know that Michael is not forgotten. Will never BE forgotten. Michael lives on forever in the minds and hearts of all who knew and loved him. God bless you Mike!
Bill Corridori
Terri Cameron
April 30, 2010
I am so sorry to just find out about Mike. My husband and I had the great fortune to know Mike and Beth, through my employment at the Atlanta hawks/Thrashers and Philips Arena. We have fond memories of the sponsor trip and many many games. Our deepest sympathies and prayers for Beth and the entire family. Scooch (Terri & Mike Cameron) Atlanta Georgia
Ed Bowen
January 1, 2010
I first met Mike in 1984 when I worked for TIME Magazine. We lunched at his favorite spot, the 3-Way Truck Stop. Later, we hosted Mike and the Philips Executives and their wives at a posh restaurant in Knoxville and provided a special speaker, Hugh Sidey. Mike really liked that event and spoke of it often in later years. I will miss Mike. He was a class act.
Ron Greathouse
December 27, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie,
I knew Mike first in grade school, at McCoy Elementry. We both moved to the suburbs and went to Jr High and High School together at Park Hill.
Just recently I helped organize our 40th year high school reunion. I contacted Mike and he informed me that he wouldn't be able to make it to the reunion, because of a prior committment. Then a couple of days before he called and said he reorganize his schedule and would be able to make it back. A few of us met with Mike before the reunion at the hotel. He was, as he always has been, a true gentleman, and most importantly a good friend. We all feel it was faith that we were able to see and talk to Mike. He will truly be missed by his childhood friends. We all loved Mike very much.
seth fried
September 9, 2009
Dear Keel family,
I worked with Mike on the Cleese Magnavox campaign. Our agency loved him. He was smart, funny, sweet, honest, creative...but most of all, he was a good man. A person with a good heart. And we loved him and whenever his name comes up when we talk about the old days, we all smile and nod our heads when his name is mentioned. My condolences. I am very honored to have worked for him.
Joseph Arseneau
July 11, 2009
Dear Katie and Beth, I knew Mike Keel , the " fish " in HS and YES he was a unique and wonderful person even way back then. I am saddened learning of his passing . You have my deep condolences and expression of sorry . I am so glad to read Mike's obituary and hear of his wonderful accomplishments. I always respected him and knew he would be a success.
Joe Arseneau , Parker Co...
William Corridori
July 8, 2009
Dear Beth & Katie,
As I ponder and question another great man gone too soon, I realize that I have so many fond memories of the man I consider to be one of my most cherished friends. No matter how much time went in between our communications, when we talked it was clear that not a day was lost. Not a single moment forgotten. And there was laughter. Always laughter.
Beth, I know you remember many of these times with Michael, you and me. And I know that you must laugh, and cry. Amidst the sadness, those joys can never be forgotten. And never be replaced. Never forget how much I love you and Mike.
Katie, I'm sure you are aware of the incredibly unique and special man that is your father. You have my deepest sympathies. But remember. There was always joy and laughter. THAT is your Dad.
Bill Corridori
Gary Pearson
July 4, 2009
My heart felt condolences on Mike's passing. I worked with Mike for eleven years and enjoyed our interactions. Mike was one of the only executives that never showed a political bent, but only to achieve the very best. He was the greatest advertising executive I ever had the honor of working with. Even today when I see something extremely innovative or clever I say to myself, "smart, very smart". So sorry you and the world will miss a truly fine man.
Gary Pearson
July 2, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie -
As with so many, I was shocked to get your message today. I have read the wonderful obituary on Michael - and the incredible impact he had on his community and the world around him - but of course most preciously on the two of you. Please know that you are and will be in my thoughts and prayers in the difficult days to come - and how I wish you rays of sunshine between those showers of tears, as his light will always shine on in both of you.
With much love, Cathy-in-Vermont
Tadhg Hart, MD
June 30, 2009
It it often the most favorable aspect of practicing medicine, the opportunity to develop such a personal and unique relationship. Mike never entered the office indifferently. Kindness preceded his outstretched hand and light spread to the giggling staff. Instead of wheeling to find the source of the ruckus, I continued writing and smiled to myself. No need for visual evidence of his arrival.
Mike, I am better to have known you.
Mara Garton
June 30, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie,
I knew Mike in high school. As a swim team groupie and sister of Augie Grasis, Mike and I were good friends. In college I went to the MU football games not to watch the football rather to see Mike cheer -- much more entertaining. Recently Augie, after the high school reunion, filled me in on what an amazing guy Mike had continued to be in adult life and about the swimming success of you, Katie. How incredibly proud he was!!! Beth and Katy, sending you my prayers,
Mara Grasis Garton
Jody Huffaker
June 30, 2009
Perhaps you can find comfort in knowing what a wonderful blessing Mike was (and will continue to be) to so many people. I so enjoyed working with him at Philips. What a wonderful, intelligent, and genuinely uplifting person to be around. May God bless your family with His unending peace and strength in the days to come.
Don Degener
June 29, 2009
Keel Family: What has been said of Mike was so true. We were there at the beginning of the Park Hill Swim/Dive back in 1966. We shared room together at district championships one year. Laughing so hard we cried. After all we were once boys.
Once as a Colorado Buffalo swimmer competing at MU in Columbia, Mike upon seeing me sitting with my team came over from his Cheerleader squad and greeted me with a huge smile and hug at pool side. My teammates and coach were all taken aback. It was not about sportsmanship, but friendship.
Years of time have passed, distances immense, my thoughts and good memories remain.
Don Degener
Olongapo, Philippines
Augie Grasis
June 29, 2009
Beth & Katie
Mike and I were on the Swim/Dive team at Park Hill. Though I was a couple years younger I considered him a good friend and we had some great times together. I had lost track of him after college but thought of him from time to time and was excited to see him at the reunion this summer. He was so happy and proud to tell me about you, Katie. Your great success as a swimmer and what a fabulous person you are. I could tell that Mike consdered himself the luckiest man in the world in having such a fantastic family.
I am so sad to lose Mike just as we became reacquainted. I am so very sorry for your loss and I am praying for your comfort.
Danette Dickerman
June 29, 2009
Keel Family:
I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Mike during my tenure with Tyee (Euro). He was a great man and someone who taught me so much. What a loss for everyone who ever came in contact with Mike. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.
Sharon Kennedy
June 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of deep loss. I spent a couple of hours with Mike recently for the first time. His laugh, his upbeat personality and gracious manner left me feeling like we had been friends for years. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know him however briefly. Sharon Kennedy, Clayton Homes
Janet Weber
June 29, 2009
Keel family,
Thinking of you at this difficult time.
I was lucky to work with Mike at Philips for many years. While I didnt work directly for him, I always felt he was a mentor and he always provided support and encouragement to me.
For that I am truly lucky and appreciative. I will miss his friendly smile a lot.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
sincerly,
Janet Weber
June 29, 2009
Beth and Katie,
We are so sorry for your loss. We will keep you two in our prayers. Mike was such a sweet person and so proud of Katie.We had some great conversations over the last year. We are grateful to have known him.
Laura, John, and Caroline Lutz
Carol Gee
June 29, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie,
My sister Patty, who lives in Kansas City, sent me the news of my long-lost friend, Mike. After the shock, my first thought was "you can't weep for someone who gave more to life than he took from it". Despite the lost years of contact, the days in DE, the trips to RI, the friendship we shared is never far from my mind. You will be in my heart and prayers in the days ahead and I hope to talk to you soon to reconnect. Much love, Carol
Joe Powell
June 28, 2009
Mike was such a supportive and friendly companion from our summer days back at Preston's pool practicing our dives and on the high school swimming team. It's a shock to hear of his passing. I feel lucky to have known him, albeit so briefly.
Jan & Dan Thomas
June 28, 2009
Beth, thinking of you. Our deepest sympathies.
irma selderbeek
June 28, 2009
Dear family Keel,
I send you my condolences at the loss of Mike. My deepest sympathy to you at the very sad, most difficult time.
Cathy Cartwright (Connell)
June 28, 2009
I am shocked and so sad to hear about Mike. I was fortunate to visit with him at our high school reunion last month. We laughed about our experiences playing percussion together in the high school band. My sincere condolences to his family.
Jim Murphy
June 28, 2009
It's very difficult to improve upon the beautifully and accurately written obituary. I had the privilege of Mike's friendship for over 25 years at Philips. We fought a lot of battles together against competitors (and sometimes with our own Company) in the crazy consumer electronics marketplace. It was hard work...but Mike helped make it a lot of fun too with an easy laugh and (sometimes) delightfully barbed sense of humor which I richly enjoyed. I will miss him very much.
June 28, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie
Phil and I send you our sincere condolences at the loss of Michael. Our memory of him is that we were happy to be in his company and he had an infectious optomism and joy of life, always leaving us feeling we were important and that he was glad to be with us. Your loss is not measurable and we grieve for you. Phil & Eileen Chapman from England
June 27, 2009
Beth -- With prayers and sympathy. - Tim McKeehan
Shebbie Graves
June 27, 2009
Beth & Katie,
Allison and I are so sad for your loss. You were both so sweet to us when my mom passed away unexpectedly during the 2007 madrigal season. It was the first thing I thought of when I read the obituary. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. A hug to both of you from both of us, Shebbie Graves and Allison Williams
Lois (McCoy) Barnes
June 27, 2009
Beth and Katie,
I worked with Mike for about 4 years in the Philips Advertising Department. I was so shocked saddened to hear about his passing. You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. Mike was truly a wonderful, compassionate, considerate person who made everyone around him feel important. He always brought a smile to my face when he spoke about you and Katie. I am so sorry I had to miss the Saturdy service but my thoughts and prayers were with you both.
June 27, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie,
It is hard to imagine someone so full of life would leave us so soon. I always enjoyed hearing from Mike, and seeing what your next new home project would be. Like every thing else, he approached every project with contagious enthusiasm. I know his heavenly home will be perfect. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy,
Janice Britt
Ted Barnes
June 27, 2009
Best wishes to Mike's family in this difficult time. Sorry we didn't get to meet you (we live in Oak Ridge). I attended elem school and HS with Mike in Kansas City, and still have many fond memories of those times.
Nancy and Amy Cowan
June 27, 2009
Beth and Katie, Amy and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Mike was one of the kindest and most joyous people we've ever known and he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
June 27, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie,
We can't imagine the depths of your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the lifetime of cherished memories you built with Mike help comfort and sustain you now and always.
With deepest sympathy,
Maryellen, Randall, Cassidy, Mary, and Katharine Duckett
Donna Martin
June 27, 2009
We never met Mike, but we have known and loved Beth for many years through my working relationship with her at TVA. Mike had to be a special fellow because Beth always knows how to light up a room in an instant, with unbridled joy for life. Our hearts go out to Beth and the entire family. You have our love and prayers. By odd coincidence, I was recovering from surgery on the 5th floor of UT Hospital, right down the hallway at the very same time that Mike was there. So we were nearby, praying fiercely, and passing contact information to coworkers. We are so sorry that we are unable to go to the Saturday services. May God give comfort to Mike's family and friends. (Donna Martin & Jim Mottern)
Peggy Scissom
June 27, 2009
Beth and Katie:
My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this sad time. You are in my prayers.
ELAN RENTAL
June 27, 2009
Mike, YOU ARE HERE.
Greg Plumb
June 27, 2009
From the young boy days of the baseball field to high school days in the band, Mike always had a smile that made you feel better. The intentness of his focus when listening to you made you believe he was truly interested in you. I enjoyed my short time with him at the high school reunion last month.
Davidson
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss of such a special man. Mike is someone I have looked up to since I was a little girl--a person who defines altruism. I wish you the best during this difficult time. With much love, Amanda
Cathy Pittman
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie,
We are so shocked and saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He was truly a wonderful man, who never met a stranger. We so looked forward to tailgating and catching up on the latest accomplishment of Katie. He will be missed by many. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you both.
The Pittmans's, Chuck, Cathy, Chad & Erin
Bob Cowan
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie - plus all of those close to Mike,
Please take solice in all of the wonderful memories Make has given us all. My family had the privilege of hanging out with the Keel family at some Vols bowl games and Mike simply made me laugh and smile the entire time with his quick witted humor and positive attitude. A true man's man, a gem that will never be forgotten.
Beth and Katie, we will keep you in our prayers.
Geraldine Pesacreta
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie,
It was a pleasure to know Mike and learn more of him through the obituary. We could see his smile as we read about his life. May God give you the strength and comfort you need to live with Mike/dad in your heart and to move on. You are loved. This is your time to allow those who love you to support you.
Much love and daily prayers that God gives you strength beyond all understanding.
George and Geraldine Pesacreta
Pam Jordan
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie: Mike was such an inspiration and friend to everyone he met. I'll always remember the "poster" birth announcement he handed out when Katie was born. What a proud father! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy Johnson Kelley
June 26, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. What a complete shock it was to hear of his passing. I am glad I got to see him, albeit breifly, at the reunion last month. God be with you and your family.
Twila (Arnett) Moody
June 26, 2009
My deepest sympathy to you at this very sad, most difficult time. I grew up with Dusene Vunovich, Mike's cousin. And I will always remember how much fun it was at the family weddings dancing with Ron, Steve, and Mike. They were always so much fun and just made the event. What a wonderful family The Keels were. God bless you and your family.
Chris Nicely
June 26, 2009
I knew Mike through his friendship and professional relationship with John Kalec. I had the fortune of discussing marketing ideas on a number of occasions with Mike and he never ceased to impress me with his energy and his positive outlook.
June 26, 2009
Beth and family, We are so shocked and saddened by the news of Mike's passing. We feel most fortunate we had the opportunity to reconnect at the high school reunion last month. We pray God's peace and strength now and for all your tomorrow's. (Jim) Charley and Betty (Hobbs) Hunsicker
Karen Brown
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie,
Steve and I are so very sorry to hear of Mikes' passing. He was a great guy and always lot's of fun to be around. What I remember most...when he ask you how you were, he really listened to all you had to say. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Steve and Karen Brown
Cheryl, Mike, Kyle, Jacob & Claire Norman
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie, We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was such a wonderful person. We enjoyed traveling with you and Jacob especially enjoyed time spent with you all skiing. We are praying for you.
Rhonda Jones Sparks
June 26, 2009
I was so very pleased to see such a beautifully written obituary for Mike, for it so eloquently sums up my thoughts about him in a way I never could. Mike never met a stranger, never forgot anyone no matter how brief their initial meeting may have been, and never treated anyone as though they were in any way less then him. I had the honor of meeting him and Beth for the first time when Mike and I were fortunate enough, along with other colleagues and their spouses, to travel to Bermuda as recognition for winning the Philips President's Award. The award and recognition were nice, but long after that excitement had faded, the glow of Mike's kind friendship remained. My deepest, most heartfelt condolences are extended to the family, and I pray God brings you peace.
Sincerely,
Dave Beck
June 26, 2009
A man who can stand taller in life than in death is a man who has lived life to its fullest. None of Mike’s positive influences are lost on those who knew him and loved him. I would like to offer my condolences to Beth, Katie and the rest of the Keel family.
June 26, 2009
To All Keels,
I'm deeply saddened by your loss and the passing of my best youngest buddy right across the street. His wonderful life is no surprise to me as The Keels are a family extraordinaire. I'll always remember those golden days, Larry & Steve, me & Mike around the neighborhood and in the Keel backyard.
Sincerest Sympathy to you all,
The John Colle family
Miranda Frye
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie, We are so sorry for your loss. Mike was a great person who will be missed greatly. The Frye family will miss Mike at the tailgates.
Marka Smith
June 26, 2009
Beth,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and Katie.
June 26, 2009
Beth & Katie, I was so saddened to hear about Mike. He was always so very kind to me. I will keep you both in my prayers. Pam Strausbaugh, Tim and Mark's mom.
Nancy Jones Nokes
June 26, 2009
We were so fortunate that Mike was able to attend the reunion this summer. He was such a genuine person and we all spoke of him with such high regard afterward. Anyone who talked to Mike walked away smiling. I am incredibly saddened by his passing and my prayers are with his family.
lee letsinger
June 26, 2009
what a blessing it was for us to have known Mike. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most sad time. love always.
Ruth Horton
June 26, 2009
Beth,
I am stunned and deeply saddened by your loss. Please know that your friends at work are keeping your family in their hearts as you go through this unspeakably difficult time. Blessings.
Ruth Horton.
Rich DeSelm
June 26, 2009
On behalf of everyone at The University of North Carolina...our team members, staff, and all of the swimming and diving parents...we are saddened by Mike's passing. He will always be remembered as a vibrant, energetic, passionate and supportive father to Katie and supporter of our program. He was a wonderful husband and father and we pray that Beth & Katie and their family find strength and comfort knowing Mike is in good hands with God.
Janice Pinkston
June 26, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Laura Goff Parham
June 26, 2009
Mike was truly a great person.
Laura Goff Parham
Angela Ballew
June 26, 2009
Beth and Katie, Words can not express my sympathy for you at this time. May the Lord grant you peace and comfort during this time of sorrow. My prayers are with you and all of your family.
Lori Roberts
June 26, 2009
So sorry to hear of your loss. Mike remains an inspiration to so many, including me. His energy, business insights and playful spirit made life at Philips more fun. May God comfort you in this time of sorrow.
CAROL NORTHERN
June 26, 2009
BETH AND FAMILY
I'M SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT MIKE.
HE WAS SUCH A NICE PERSON.
I'LL BE THINKING OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
CAROL NORTHERN ( MOTHER OF LISA McKENZIE.)
June 26, 2009
Cheri and family, I am so very sorry. I lost my brother, Steve, when he was 51. They both died too young. May God give you peace.
Connie Tracy
June 26, 2009
Mike was one in a million and will always be remembered. His spirit will live forever in so many of the people he touched during his life...
He was my friend and confidant at Philips. We worked together on the Philips Arena project. Without Mike, many of the successes we had would never have come to fruition. I will never forget when he landed the rights to use the Beatles song, "It's getting better all the time" in Philips' advertising campaign...
Beth, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family...
Michael Mandas
Linda & Tom Schumann
June 26, 2009
Sadness surrounds us as we grieve Mike's passing, yet we know he will be remembered here and walk forever in God's graces. Our hearts reach out to Katie and Beth for this earth-shattering change. We pray they find comfort and joy in many wonderful memories and long-lasting influences from Mike's time in their lives.
Anne Bridges
June 26, 2009
Dear Beth and Katie--I was so sad to learn of Michael's death. I remember him foremost as a loving and involved father, so proud of Katie. I am thinking of both of you. Take care--Anne Bridges (Elizabeth Bates's mother)
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