Louis Martin Keup

1958 - 2025

Louis Martin Keup

January 3, 1958 - October 1, 2025

Louis Martin Keup of North Platte passed away on Oct. 1, 2025, at the North Platte Care Center at the age of 67.

Louis was born one of three children to parents Martin and Elcia (Powell) Keup on Jan. 3, 1958, in North Platte, where he was raised and spent the entirety of his life.

Upon receiving his GED, Louis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, eager to serve his country. While in boot camp, his mother became very ill, prompting him to return home to care for her. Louis eventually became a licensed plumber and spent his entire working career utilizing his skill in various businesses, including Snell's, Charlie's Plumbing, the Rec Center, and, most recently, the City of North Platte, where he retired in 2024.

In July 1981, Louis went through the local Arby's drive thru and met his future wife, Melody Burford, on the other side of the window. He took his shot, telling Melody, "I wanna dance with you someday," and the two were wed on Aug. 14, 1981, spending 45 years together. The couple brought two boys into the world, Nic and Tyler, and raised their family in North Platte.

Louis was an avid deer hunter, turning every deer season into an annual holiday. As kids, Louis took his boys camping and taught them all the things that dads traditionally teach young boys, to have fun and, most importantly, to always marinate your venison in Dorothy Lynch. His love of the outdoors encouraged his membership in the Wildlife Club. Sturgis trips every fall became a tradition for Louis and Melody. The couple attended the event for 32 years in a row. Louis's love for motorcycles carried over into his membership in the Guardians of the Children, a group he strongly advocated for. Louis was ornery and always joking, but professional and reliable in the same breath. He helped wherever he could and has probably fixed everyone's plumbing at least once in the city of North Platte. He absolutely adored his grandchildren and was a devoted uncle to several nieces and nephews.

Louis was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Elcia; grandparents, Louis and Lula Keup and Albert and Ethel Powell; his brother, Ivan Keup; and his sister, Pauline Zogg.

Survivors include his wife, Mel Keup; sons, Nic (Dawn) Keup and Tyler Keup; grandchildren, Jazmyn Keup, Gage Knutson and Pyper Keup; several beloved nieces and nephews; and other family.

The family encourages the public to share memories of Louis online at adamsswanson.com. Memorials are suggested to the Guardians of the Children.

Per his wishes, cremation was chosen and private family services will be held.