Kenneth Raymond KETO

Ken Keto, a loving husband, devoted father, and grandfather, passed away on August 5, 2023, at the age of 84, after a long battle with health issues. Born on March 25, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Edward and Hilma Keto. As a child, he moved with his family to Fontana, California, where he spent his formative years.

Ken attended Fontana High School and Chafee College. He joined the Navy to see the world and was stationed in the remote Adak, Alaska. He also served on the Midway. During a snow skiing trip to Mammoth Mountain, Ken met the love of his life, Susan Hill, and they married on October 5, 1963. This year would have been their 60th wedding anniversary. They were blessed with two sons, Ronald and Daniel, who brought joy and fulfillment to their lives. The family expanded further with the arrival of four grandchildren: Zac, Torie, Noelle, and Eddie.

In 1970, they moved to Spokane, Washinton, Ken's background was in construction and real estate. He had worked alongside his father in his painting company in California. He established Pioneer Homes, a successful real estate company in Spokane Valley in 1971. Ken was a real estate broker in California, Idaho, and Washington. Ken's passion for construction, he founded Keto Construction, dedicating his skills to building numerous custom homes. His craftsmanship and attention to detail were renowned, leaving a lasting mark on the communities he served.

Ken co-founded the Spokane Valley Kiwanis in 1975 and served as President 1976 - 1977. He received the Recognition Award for Outstanding Service & Leadership 1975 - 1988 and was the Lieutenant Governor 1981 - 1982. He was the Kiwanian of the Year 1982 - 1983 and received the George Hixson Award in 1995.

Ken and Sue cherished their love of travel. Exploring the open road in their RV, they embarked on countless adventures throughout the United States. They also ventured abroad going to Europe, Mexico, and China.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Hilma Keto and brother, John. Ken is survived by his wife, Susan; sons, Ron (Barb) and Dan; and his beloved grandchildren, Zac, Torie, Noelle, and Eddie. Ken will be remembered as a devoted family man, an accomplished entrepreneur, and a passionate builder who left an indelible impact on the world around him.

As family and friends gather to honor and celebrate Ken's life, may they find solace in the memories shared and take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will endure through the lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Hennessey Spokane Valley Funeral Home, 1315 N. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley. In lieu of flowers and in light of Ken's passion for the service the Kiwanis organization provides, please consider memorial contributions to the Spokane Valley Kiwanis Foundation at P.O. Box 1003, Spokane Valley, Washington 99037. Many thanks to Arletta's Adult Family Home and Hospice of Spokane for the care and concern shown to Ken during his final days.

Please share your memories of Ken on his Tribute Wall at www.HennesseyValley.com.