Keefer D. Babbitt

1992 ~ 2021

Born July 30, 1992, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Keefer Dean Babbitt lit up a room with his beaming smile and radiant energy. As a boy, he was usually sporting a cowboy hat and boots, clutching his Sherriff Woody doll in his arm, and bargaining with his sister and brothers while running his candy store. His ability to bring laughter and levity to friends and family was effortless. The light he shone on the lives of everyone who knew him, was eclipsed when he died on January 21, 2021.

Keefer's early life was spent in Iowa, where the early seeds of his passion for athletics were sown. After moving to Heber City, Utah, his athletic ability flourished and produced state titles in basketball, track and football. Keefer met the love of his life, Riley Pendleton, in high school. As fate would have it, their paths crossed later in college and they began dating. While earning a Finance degree from the University of Utah in 2015, he forged lifelong friendships and leadership roles with the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Keefer balanced his busy collegiate schedule with an internship at Grandeur Peak Global Advisors that turned into an extraordinarily successful nine-year career, achieving a top position as Portfolio Manager.

Keefer and Riley married on July 7, 2017 surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains. They enjoyed traveling together on his work trips, especially spending six weeks in Australia. On September 23, 2019, they welcomed their daughter Ivy Lou into their loving arms. More than anything, Keefer relished his role as husband and "Dada".

This past year Keefer, Riley and Ivy enjoyed a family trip to their special place, Maui, as well as the luxury of precious time spent together in their new home. Despite the support of his loving family and his relentless drive to better himself, Keefer wasn't able to enjoy the life he had intentionally built. Everyone who knew Keefer saw him as perfect in every way —he just couldn't see it himself. Keefer will continue to provide for us in the ways we need him.

Keefer is survived by wife Riley, daughter Ivy Lou; parents Rod and Judy Babbitt, Chris and Amy Pendleton; siblings Derk (Cesar), Ashley (Patrick), Weston (Jessica), and brother-in-law Sawyer.

A small remembrance will be occurring with his immediate family in the next month. A larger gathering for his celebration of life will be planned in July (TBD). Arrangements are entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Please share your memories and photos with his family at [email protected]

In lieu of flowers, support for the family can be given in the following ways: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Babbitt-family

https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/k57vvv

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

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Jan. 27 to Feb. 5, 2021.

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Ryan Boyack

February 1, 2021

Judy & Rod, and Family,
We are so sorry for the heartbreak and loss of Keefer. We are all saddened by the news of his passing. Our condolences to you and your family and you are in our thoughts and prayers.
We hope you may be able to find some peace during this troubling time.
Ryan and Darcie Boyack

Thomas Osmond

January 30, 2021

I had the privilege of getting to know Keefer while attending the University of Utah together. Over finance club, classes, and leisure time in the trading room I came to greatly admire and respect Keefer. He was a phenomenal leader, and an even better person. I look up to Keefer, and that won't change with his passing. My deepest condolences to Riley, Ivy and others grieving at this time. A truly heartbreaking blow. You'll consistently remain in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.

Mont Wade

January 29, 2021

I am so sorry to hear this sad occurrence. My daughter Abby played soccer with Riley and ran track with Keefer. I will always remember him as the happy kid who brought light to those around him. My heart and prayers go out to you his family. May you somehow feel peace and comfort in this trying time.

Tracy Daniels

January 29, 2021

I loved him as did everyone! He stands out in my mind as a ray of light. He did light up a room with that smile. Loved watching him play sports. What a beautiful soul inside and out. I pray he knows what joy and happiness he has brought to sooooo many. Sending love and prayers and I’ll never forget him.

Randy/Carol Wendling & Family

Planted Trees

Connor Leeming

January 28, 2021

I am so, so sorry for your loss. Although I never met him personally, his legacy is well and alive at the University of Utah with the impression he left on the hearts of staff and students alike. Wishing you all comfort during this time.

Joyce Clark

January 28, 2021

I lived right beside Keefer in Heber City, Utah and when my husband died Keefer made a sympathy poster and put it on my front door. It really touched me.

Patrick Kibbie

January 28, 2021

Keefer was an amazing man! Friendly, smart, and loving! You always knew you had a friend in him! My love and thoughts are with his family! ❤❤❤

Robyn Eliason

January 28, 2021

Dear Judy. I-am so so sorry about Keefer. I am so fond of him. My thoughts are with you and your family hold tight to each and surround Riley and Ivy with love
Much love Robyn Heyrend

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