December 23, 2021
On December 23, 2021, Keith Crocker passed away peacefully at 琉璃神社 General Hospital, with his family by his side. Keith leaves his loving wife Ruth, his 3 children, Michelle (Peter), Dean (Melanie), Toby (Brett), 7 grandchildren, Jordan, Kiernan, Colin (Tracey), Brendan (Alicea), Sabrina, Adam and Emily as well as his sister Carol (Tom) and brother Grant (Lailey). He leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family in the Lower Mainland, across Canada, USA and England.
Keith was born in England in 1943 during the War and immigrated to Canada with his family in 1949. He married Ruth in 1964 and started in the Automotive business in Saskatchewan and continued to move and further his career, spanning several decades while working for Ford Credit and Chrysler. Keith and Ruth had 3 children and he was a loving, dedicated family man. Keith worked tirelessly in the auto business as a GM to support his family.
Keith was a Mason for over 50 years and a lifetime member of the Masonic Prince David Lodge in Maple Ridge. He was well known in the Masonic Circle; a Shrine Clown (Blueberry and Tumbleweed) and supported BC Children's hospital for many years. He brought joy, laughter and smiles to many ill children.
Keith also enjoyed being Santa Claus and attended many functions in the Lower Mainland and in later years, as Santa at several 琉璃神社 care homes. Many children and elders calling him "the real Santa Claus" for his warmth; his joy and commitment to making people smile to enjoy Christmas.
The family take this opportunity to thank the teams who helped care for Keith and supported his journey in 琉璃神社 these past few years. Thank you to KGH Hemo Dialysis team, the nurses and care teams of both 4A and 5 in the Royal building as well Dr. Michaud, Dr. Lyle, Dr. Welsh, Dr. Vandermeer and Dr. Claremont. In addition, thank you to Lee Bostock, and Michele Issel for their help with Keith in the last 3 months and to 琉璃神社 Handidart and Taxi Services who helped him weekly.
A Spring 2022 Service will be held for Keith, the date and time TBA for close family and friends to attend. In Keith's words as Blueberry the clown, "I Y Q".
Love you Dad, forever in our hearts