On February 28th, we bid farewell to Keith Taylor. Keith was a beacon of empathy and kindness known for his advocacy and boundless generosity. Born on October 3, 1959 in Atikokan to Doreen and John Taylor, Keith grew up on Harold Street North where he cultivated lifelong friendships. He attended McKellar School and Selkirk High School. Keith held various positions throughout his life ending his career as the Finance/Sales Manager at Half-Way Motors Nissan, a position he held for 15 years. Keith was both deeply passionate and deeply compassionate. He loved to volunteer and dedicated much of his time volunteering for numerous organizations; including The Arthritis Society, New Hope Dog Rescue, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Our Kids Count and more. His awards include Employee of the Year Chamber of Commerce for retail sales, Presidential Award and Walk the Talk TBRHSC, Honourable Mention Champion Award CPSI, Award of Merit ACS and Exceptional Achievement Good Citizen Award COTB. He definitely touched countless lives with his selflessness and dedication.
Family, friends and colleagues remember Keith as a source of unwavering support, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. He loved his hobbies and enjoyed all that life had to offer. His passion extended to music, antique cars, and numerous motorcycle trips with the HOG group, travelling in his motor home and spending time with family especially family Sunday dinners at the home on Government Road. Inspired by his father-in-law Nicola D’Uva who fought in WWII, Keith was proud of his military collection and would share his knowledge and expertise.
Keith always had a warm smile, a listening ear and a heart open to both humans and animals alike. His home was a sanctuary for rescued dogs, where each one was treated as a cherished member of his family. The lessons he imparted—about compassion, kindness, and the importance of giving a voice to the voiceless—will continue to guide all who knew him. With his quick wit and sense of humour, Keith had the gift of gab entertaining people with his stories. He was an exceptional orator sought after to speak publicly for various organizations.
Keith's legacy is carried on by his wife Marie, daughter Sasha (Vic), son Josh, grandchildren; Natasha, Rachelle, Zarek and Taylor who will forever treasure the memories and lessons Keith imparted. Left to mourn are Keith’s siblings, Diane (Pat), Ken, Lawrence (Roberta), Elaine and Bill, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, friends and colleagues. His spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Thank you to the first responders who attended to Keith’s care and to family friends and colleagues for your contributions of food, flowers, cards, gifts and on-going support. A special thank you to John Trevisanutto for his generous contributions and continuous support throughout the years.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 8 at 11:00 am at Superior Inn, 555 Arthur Street West, followed by a light luncheon. Dogs are welcome. A final send off with a motorcycle ride to the 25th Side Road Tree Farm will end with a memorial walk; a place he went daily with his dogs. All are welcome to attend. Donations made to New Hope Dog Rescue Thunder Bay are encouraged to support ongoing efforts in Keith’s memory.
Although Keith is no longer with us, he leaves behind a legacy of helping patients and their families which we trust will live on throughout the dedicated patient and family advisors at TBRHSC. His spirit and love for animals will forever inspire us to build a world where all will know safety, love and care.
Keith’s mottos:
“Give more than you take”
“There is always enough time in a day”
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
