Keith Edward Modestow

Keith Edward Modestow of Southwick, MA, passed away on February 7, 2026, at the age of 65. A gentle giant at 6'8", Keith was remembered by everyone who met him for his quiet strength, unshakeable work ethic, and the high standard he brought to everything he did.

Born in Northampton and raised in Worthington, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Dr. John E. Modestow and Nannette (Bartels) Modestow. Keith attended Dean Junior College, walked on to Baylor University's basketball team for a season, and completed his studies at UMass, where he pursued computer science and business.

For more than three decades Keith operated his own business as a builder, framer and finish carpenter. The care he put into his craft - from the smallest detail to the whole structure - earned him a reputation for excellence. In later years he served as chief estimator for Saloomey Construction, helping bring countless projects in the region to completion, including buildings and homes that remain part of the community he loved.

Above all else Keith was a devoted husband and father. He married Rogina in the Worthington house where he grew up, and together they built a life that included a cross-country motorcycle journey and nearly 39 years of shared anniversaries (an all-but-charming family note: it's never rained on their anniversary). He cherished watching his children play and compete - traveling hours to attend volleyball, football, lacrosse, basketball and softball games - and remained their loudest, proudest supporter.

Keith also dedicated many years to coaching youth basketball, including proudly coaching his kids through school. He valued the opportunity to mentor young athletes, teaching teamwork, discipline, and confidence both on and off the court. Coaching allowed him to quietly shape and encourage others, something he took great pride in throughout his life.

Keith's creativity appeared in many forms: hand-drawn sketches found in the homes of his children, imaginative Halloween costumes he helped design, and projects that kept his hands busy and his mind engaged. He volunteered in the community through his trade and took pride in work that benefited neighbors and local institutions.

He is survived by his wife, Rogina Modestow; his children Jake (Morgan), Wade (Erika), Paulina (Bret), and Cole (fiancé Daniela); grandchildren Kent and Sutton (children of Jake and Morgan) and Wes and Cal Edward (children of Wade and Erika); and siblings Larry (Amy), Shelley (Mark), Janine (Tom), Ian (Michelle), and Darius (Kirsten). He counted among his closest friends Michael O'Brien, whose partnership in work and life paralleled Keith's.

Keith will be remembered for his steady kindness, practical intelligence, and the pride he took in providing for and supporting his family. His work - in timber and design, in mentoring young tradespeople and athletes, and in the homes and businesses he helped build - is his lasting legacy.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 11 AM – 1 PM at Southwick Forastiere Funeral and Cremation, 624 College Highway, Southwick, MA.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory, you may make a contribution to Rogina Modestow, arranged through the funeral home.