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Keith Allen McFadden, 28, fell asleep in the Lord June 22, 2007 at his home surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly. Visitation will be Wednesday, June 27 at 11:00 AM at community Covenant Church, 15700 West 87th St Parkway, Lenexa, KS. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM followed by a reception at the church.
Keith was born in Overland Park, KS on September 20, 1978. From the time he could walk Keith had a ball in his possession to either kick, throw or to shoot hoops. Keith was a 1997 graduate of Shawnee Mission Northwest. He attended Kansas State University, and graduated in 2001 with a degree in Management Information Systems. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.
After graduation, Keith began his adult life in Dallas, Texas. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor in December 2002. After undergoing two surgeries in Dallas he felt the need to return to Kansas City to have the love and support of his family and friends to deal with this disease.
He returned in August 2003 and worked as a salesman for New Horizons Learning Center.
Keith endured two more surgeries, seizures, strokes, chemotherapy and radiation, blood clots and bleeding on the brain with such grace, courage, strength and dignity that he amazed all who came around him.
In June 2006 Keith was no longer able to work and concentrated on treatments and physical therapy to continue his battle against cancer.
With all the set backs and struggles, Keith continued to fight.
In the last year Keith was unable to walk but he is now fully whole again with the Lord. Cancer may have destroyed his brain but never destroyed his heart!
In the last four weeks Keith was bedridden at his parents home where he was surrounded by family and friends so that he was never alone.
Keith not only enjoyed sports and life, but will be remembered for his humor, quick wit and ability to energize a room full of people in any situation.
Keith was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Ray and Gwen Crellin and his cousin Kim Duffy Hill.
He is survived by his parents Buddy and Debbie McFadden, brother, Richard McFadden, sisters, Cheryl Jackson and Vickie McGiffin, paternal grandparents Cecil and Marge Norman, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews and more friends than imaginable.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Head for the Cure. The family would like to thank John Knox Village Hospice for the compassionate care they gave Keith and his loved ones.
Bret Shofner says
Just wanted to let you know that I miss you a lot keith. I’ve been thinking a lot about you. I hope you like your new home. Love you!!
Bret
Tiffany Watson says
Keith
I’m sorry I wasn’t there to say gooddbye, but I have been keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers, I will never forget the times when you used to come to our gymnastics meets and cheer us up when we would get a low score you, you always gave us a 10 FLAT!! thanks for all the laughs you will be truely missed.
Anna Beyer (Wooddell) says
My heart is broken after hearing Keith’s story. However, it’s amazing to see what a fighter he was. I remember Keith from SMNW and from what I remember I wouldn’t have expected anything less! My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time.
Randi Sereres says
Keith is one of the most free-spirited people I have known. He truly taught me to laugh and enjoy life. I will miss those times and hold those memories close to my heart. I love you Quico!
Erika Pawlowski says
I met Keith through Bret about 4 years ago and the time we spent together was so memorable. Mostly because every time Keith came to Florida a hurricane would hit!:) All I remember is laughing constantly with Keith during those days with no power. The last time I saw Keith was on my birthday last year, we went to South Beach for a day of relaxation. That was by far the best birthday I have ever had.
You will be missed so much Keith, I love you.
Travis Alvarado says
It was an honor to have been Keith’s friend. I will always remember him.
Bret Shofner says
“To the world you are somebody, but to somebody, you are the the world” Keith…You were and will always be my world. I miss and love you more than you will ever know.
Kori Dunaway says
When I think of Keith, I have to smile. I shared many fun memories with Keith during our college years. The first thought that comes to mind when I think about him is his smile. Keith will live on in our memories and hearts forever.
Dimitrios Roussopoulos says
Debbie, I’m sorry for your loss. I never met Keith, but I know from our conversations how much you guys loved each other. I am sure he is in a better place. Talk to you soon, Dimitrios.
Michele Williams says
Eventhough I only met Keith one time while my dad was working with Buddy at a job site I knew he was a very special person and had a lot of courage. May God be with you and love surround your your family.
Julie (Wendlandt) Schroeder says
Keith was an amazing person who always had the ability to light up any room. Keith, I hope you know you will be in Dan and I’s hearts forever and we will never forget your contagious laugh and smile. God bless you and your family.
Dan and Julie Schroeder
Debbie McKnight says
I have admired this man from afar. Hearing reports from his loving sister,Vicki. My heart aches for the pain he and his family has indured.
God Bless all who loved and cared for this courageous man, Debbie McKnight
Janice and Roger Bennett says
Though I know this was not unexpected, nothing can lessen your grief at the loss you have suffered. I know from knowing your family that you all realize Keith is in an infinitely better place now and out of pain. As time passes may you be blessed with only warm remembrances. Until then, God will comfort you and keep you safe.
Love, Janice and Roger
Jenny (Miller) Hicks says
I remember the first time I met Keith and Debbie ? Keith was 4 yrs old. That was the begining of a life-long friendship and an extended family – the Miller McFadden family. Your family touched my life and I am blessed to have known Kieth. My love will never cease and I will never forget ? Keith, Debbie or Buddy. I love all of you.
DON AND JUDY FETTERS says
Our deepest sympathy goes to the family of Keith. our love always
Don and Judy Fetters (aunt and uncle of Keith.
Nicole Charpentier Gargiulo says
There was never a shortage of laughs and smiles when Keith was around. I cherish the memories from 7th grade on. His zest for life and kind heart will be missed…Keith your spirit will live on in all of those whose lives you touched! God bless.
Michele Gras Thiessen says
I will always remember that contagious smile…
Julie (Trimble) Glisson says
During this difficult time here on earth, may you draw strength and peace knowing that one day we will be reunited in a much better and more glorious place. You all are now and always in my thoughts and prayers. I love you all, Julie
Larry and Philann McFadden says
Buddy and Debbie our thoughts and Prayers are with you. We always feel sorrow with such a loss and I hope that you will be comforted some knowing that Keith is now in a better place. I know you have plenty of family and friends there to help you, but I still wish I could be there for you also.
All our love, Larry and Philann
Paul Armenta says
Keith, I will forever remember your smile, wit, sense of humor and your ability to engage an audience. The strength and courage you have displayed is admirable and inspiring. You are a great person, a great friend and you will be greatly missed. Good bless and godspeed. We all love you.
Cindy Roach says
As one of Keith’s teachers at SMNW, I can still remember the way he could make me smile. He was always postive, happy and friendly. He was a friend to all who knew him – you couldn’t help but like Keith!
My prayers are with his family and know that their memories will give them strength and to remember that Keith would want everyone to smile, even during the tough times. Keith truly loved life!
David and Connie Duffy says
Keith has been in the hands of God through the years, but now he is in God’s Glorious presents. As Christians, we know we will see Keith again when we reach heaven. Until then, we will deeply miss him. Our hearts are breaking for you, Debbie and Buddy. Your Love for Keith is known by all through your never ending care and attention for him.
With Love,
David & Connie
The Mitts says
Dear Friends,
May you know that we care about you. Your love and care for one another has been such a witness to us. We thank God for your family and trust Him to bring smiles of Keith to your hearts.
Most Sincerely, The Mitts
Melissa Eckert says
I will always remember Keith from high school. We had such a great time with him dancing in our drill team senior dance. I also loved running into him when I would visit my brother at the Sigma Chi House in K-State. He truly was a wonderful person and will be dearly missed.
Eric Morgan says
I didn’t know Keith extremely well, but whenever I was in a room with him I was laughing. He had a way to touch everyone that was around him and always left you feeling better than before you crossed his path. Life at Sigma Chi was that much more enjoyable to be able to share a few moments a day, week or whatever with Keith.
Sharon Eckert says
My family and I are so sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. He was a young man so full of life. I’ll always remember the Sigma Chi mom’s weekend when it was snowing, and we all went out dancing. May the happy memories of Keith comfort you, and God bless you all.
Harry Dice says
Im Kathy Hewko’s friend. Iheard so much about your son I felt like I knew him. As a parent I can not imagine how you must feel. But knowing that he is in a much better place right now with the Lord must be of some comfort to you both… He will be in mine and Kathy’s prayers.
The Hayde Family says
We continue to pray for your peace and comfort in this difficult time and rejoice with you that Keith is in the loving arms of his heavenly father.
Drew Peine says
Keith had such a wonderful personality. He was a great friend and a great brother. He could always make me laugh and I feel truly blessed that I can call him my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Mike and Cheryl Sedars says
Keith was our FIRST SON and we loved him as that. Our lives have a deep hole in it now that he had gone to be with God. He will truly be missed by all who had ever had contact with him.
We will miss You and Loved you dearly,
Uncle MIke & Aunt Cheryl
Rick and Colleen Vaughan says
Keith was such a precious young man, and he is at peace now. Our hearts go out to you both. You are in our prayers.
Megan Miller (Charlton) says
I’m so sorry for the passing of Keith. He was always such a funny guy & I enjoyed being a Cougar with him. I feel some of the pain that your family is going through at this difficult time as I lost my mom to this same disease 2 years ago. May Keith rest in peace with the angels & forever be at God’s side.
Don and Gail Fortin says
Buddy and Debbie,
You are in our prayers. You are a wonderful example to all of us. I loved seeing you all in church together then helping Keith into his chair ater the service. Our hearts go out to you.
Colleen Bolin Hochberg says
I am very blessed to have known and spent my college years with Keith. I will never forget his passion and love of life!
Colleen says
I am very blessed to have known and spent my college years with Keith. I will never forget his passion and love of life!
Kylie Montague Vaughn says
I have so many wonderful memories of Keith from SMNW. He made cross country practices and meets so much more fun. Thinking back to running with “Quico” brings a huge smile to my face.
Ali Davidson says
From the times at Northwest when you could hear Keith coming down the hallway to the Lenexa BBQ, Keith’s humor, laughter and smile will live on forever. With peace, love and prayers.
Ali Brox says
My thoughts go out to Keith’s family. I was fortunate to know Keith at Northwest, and he never failed to make me smile. I lost touch with Keith after high school but I will always hold fond memories of a truly nice guy. Namaste.
Melissa (Bowman) Jones says
Keith touched my life in a way that no one else has. From the dance parties in Bret’s basement, up to K-State and down to Dallas… I feel so blessed to have so many great memories together! Keith, you will be a treasure in my heart forever! Debbie and Buddy- My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Melissa Jones
Spencer Fields says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. While Keith will be missed and the days ahead will not be easy, we can take comfort in knowing he no longer is suffering. You are a great family.
Spencer and Celeste Fields, friends of Vicki.
Angie (Blake) Thomson says
Keith’s joy and his way of making everyone laugh will never be forgotten. Keith is in a perfect place now, and I’m praying that God’s comforting love will surround the family as they go through this time.
God bless, Angie
Kyle Miller says
Keith is going to be missed so much. He was like a brother to me. We grew up together and Debbie and Buddy were like a second family to me. I have so many fond and loving memories of Keith I will never forget. I will always love you brother.
Heidi Inthavong says
Just seeing his face in the picture brings a smile to my face and the memories of him always make me laugh! Keith always had such an amazing ability to make anyone and everyone smilelaugh..even if it was at you 🙂 He has such a great spirit that was contagious! I know he will be missed, and even though it has been years since we’ve spokenseen each other..those memories will always be in my heart. God Bless! Heidi
Scott and Jennifer Dreiling says
It is very apparent that Keith will be missed by many people including us. Debbie and Buddy you guys are amazing and my heart goes out to both of you.
Andy Van Zante says
Keith was the type of person that we all should strive to be. He had the genuine personality and incredible sense of humor that, without a doubt, will be missed. I feel lucky to have known such a remarkable person.
Jonathan Laurans says
Keith was a selfless friend. His courageous battle to the very end humbles us all. We were blessed wih him here, and now we’re even more blessed to have him guarding over us . . . . We all love you Keith, and we’ll miss you so very much until the day we are joined with you again in Heaven!
Kristan Stein says
I can’t help but smile when I think of Keith. His energy, humor and fun brought us all a lot of laughs at K-State and he will always be a part of my treasured memories. God bless and comfort your family.
Trevor and Shelly Gaskill says
Keith’s love for life and willingness to help others will always be remembered. His strength, preserverance and optimistic outlook is an inspiration. We will be unable to make it back to KC but our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. In Hoc,
Laura Brockman Edson says
Keith, you will always be loved and missed, but never forgotten! Your courage and strength are truly an inspiration.
Vicky Ryan says
I have only gotten to know Keith through his mother’s eyes and what a beautiful vision that was! I know he will be missed terribly but he is in a place of peace with his Lord. Love and Prayers to all the famil.
Brandon Baker says
He was a best friend that I will never forget the great times that we shared together. You will always have a special place in my heart.
Lucas, Kelly and Ava Pfannenstiel says
You will be missed and thought of forever.
Brian Baldwin says
Keith was a person who could always put a smile on your face when down. He was always active in everything he did and always took time to help those in need. I will remember the days of flag football @ KSU and how Keith was always happy to be around the friends he cared about. He was a great guy and always fun to be around. He was a dear friend to have and will be missed.
Keith will always be remembered and never forgotten.
Chris Dickason says
My thoughts and prayers to the McFadden Family.
Josh Anderson says
Keith had the unique ability to light up ever room he was in. Often his classroom antics and comedy would even get our teachers laughing. Basketball roadtrips wouldn’t have been the same without him. You’ll be missed Quico!
Brian and Julie Jindra says
We will both miss you Keith! Julie and I both have such fond memories of you-always happy and looking to have a good time! Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Nate Anderson says
We love you Keith. You fought long and hard over the years and have now gone to a better place. May God be with your family over the next sevarl years.
Skip and Jeanene Tichenor says
The memories we have of Keith over the last 5 years will stay with us forever. He amazed us with his strength and will to keep-on-keeping-on! The love and caring shown to Keith by so many friends and family are a true witness to the person he was. His parents, Debbie and Buddy have taught us so much about being Loving, and Gracious, and about sharing their son with all of us–even as he reached the end of his life here on earth. Thank you for letting us be a little part of Keith’s life.
Cassia Bender says
“Angels, before they dance over the seas and on the wind, always offer to carry us with them.” Keith will be missed dearly.
Ryan Siegert says
Keith always had a way about him that could make everyone around him laugh, and was always the life of the party. I will truly miss the occasional banter of letting me know all the extra pounds I was carrying. He will be missed, Ryan Siegert
Luke Meek says
I will always have memories and stories of Keith from Sigma Chi at K-State that make me laugh. He was such a happy person, and an entertainer. He was fun to be around, and he is missed.
Matthew Eckert says
I have wonderful memories of Keith from high school, young life camp and the Sigma Chi house. He was an incredible guy. I am glad to have known him.
Brian Schober says
Some of my best memories were during the 3 – 4 years when Keith and I were close. I’m happy to know that he is in a better place and can feel whole again, but will miss him sorely. My thoughts go out to you, Debbie & Buddy.
John and Donna Pittman says
Keith blessed his family and friends with love and he will be missed by all. Our love and prayers go out to Debra and Buddy. May God bless you.
The Howard Bradshaw Family says
Keith will be so missed, our hearts as so heavy for all of you with your personal loss of your wonderful son and brother ! Our Lord and Savior will bring you all together again, as we all know, but its so very hard to let go of our loved ones here on earth. Know that we all care and will be there to share your sorrow and your joy as we celebrate Keith’s journey home to his Lord and Saviour.
Our love is with you always, especially at this so very difficult time.
Love,
Howard, Betty & Family
Pam and Guy Simpson says
Buddy and Debbie, Our thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.We know that Keith is with the Lord and for that we celebrate
but also as parents of children Keith,s age I can only image the pain you are enduring at this time. Our prayers are with you now.May God,s peace surround you. God broke your hearts to prove to you that he only takes the best.
Please let us know how we can be of help in the up coming days.
Pam and Guy Simpson
Stephanie Staatz says
Although I didn’t know Keith, my prayers have been with your family for months through knowing his loving sisters. God bless you during this difficult time.
Kathy Byrd says
I never knew Keith but through Debbie and Amber, my daughter who knew Keith, I feel like I knew him. Keith will be missed but through faith you know he is with God and at peace. My prayers and thoughts will be with you.
Mary Mumford says
I thought I had come to give my friend Debbie a hand during the last six weeks of Keith’s time here on earth, but God used it as a blessing for me! Never would I have imagined how my faith would be strengthened in witnessing the immeasurable power of love. Thank you for letting me have my “Mondays with Keith”.
And, this great picture of him here “makes my eyes hurt”!!
I love you.
Bill Stansbury says
My most vivid memory of Keith is, on the day that Lynda had her stroke in 1995, once she was in a room, her first visitor was Keith. He was dressed in bluejeans and a blue work shirt with a card in his hand. I was never so glad to see him. I will never forget him. He is ao very loved and I know, without a doubt, he is with the Lord.
Eldon and Connie Puett says
Little did we know that when we first met Keith with his “easy to like” personality that he would later become an inspiration to us. When Eldon was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2003, Keith was there the night before his surgery to encourage him. His visit made an immediate impact on us, and we admired his strength and determination to fight this disease. With humor and courage he persevered from which we gain hope. We celebrate his life as our lives are more blessed from knowing him. Our tears shed are for joy that he is at peace with our Lord. Hats off to you Keith!
Marla and Jerry Tanner says
We count our blessing that we were able to get to know Keith better the past four years – we have always loved your wonderful parents. We know Keith you are in a better place and look forward to the time when we can see you again. In the meantime we will continue to support Head for the Cure and pray for healing of others with this horrible disease. Our thoughts and prayers continue with your parents during this difficult time. Love The Tanners
Debbie Thomas says
My last name did not appear on my previous message to the family, so I’m sending my condolences again and giving my name on this message.
“Debbie” Thomas
Debbie says
Keith is at peace now, but my prayers are with you, the family in this time of loss. Know that your friends are with you in thought and prayer!
Matt Carpenter says
I am forever grateful for the time I had with Keith. While it was only a few short years in college, I will always remember his smile, laughter, and great personality. I am sorry I will not be able to make the trip up to the Memorial services, my thoughts and prayers will be with you all in KC. Keith, you are a great friend and brother…In Hoc
Angela Trimble says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all up there. Keith had a long, hard road but you can try to start healing knowing he is now in God’s hands. Love to you all, Angela
Al, says
Head for the Cure
Lynda Stansbury says
What a beautiful boy! You were so loved. You were everyone’s delight.
Cheryl Jackson says
Keith is one of the most amazing young men I have ever known. He demonstrated dignity and courage throughout the past four+ years, and of course, always with a word to make me laugh. I enjoyed his fun sense of humor, was awed by his authenticity and impressed by his many high school, college and long-time family friends who encouraged Keith by their frequent visits these last few months. Brother, you will be missed by so many. Your strengths will live on through us. Much love, Cheryl
Pat and Dan Wilder says
The close circle of friends from Shawnee Mission Northwest High class of 1997 are missing a key member. We will never forget Keith and how hard he fought when faced with life’s challenges. Our hearts are breaking for Keith’s family. Just know God is taking care of him for you now.
Charisse Golden says
I never knew Keith but was drawn into his wonderful life through BSF and knowing Debbie. I honestly have never known anyone who so fully put her trust and her son’s life in God loving hands. I know Debbie and her family, through trust in God, will rejoice in Keith’s short life on earth knowing that forever with him is just a promise away.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Charisse Golden
Jill Wilder says
Ever since 7th grade I could count on Keith to bring a smile to my face. He had a contagious energy for fun while always managing to be a nice guy. I feel blessed to be say we were friends. I’ll miss you buddy but wanted to let you know, “you’re hotter than Tina Turner in a biscuit fire.”
Carole Dubbert says
Keith’s long journey was followed by so many. We all thought he would get well, and be able to do the things he loved so much. He was a talented individual, and had so much to offer. Our hearts are broken by this outcome, but we know who is in charge. We prayed for Keith’s healing, but the Lord’s plans were different from ours. May the Lord comfort you in your sorrow, and cover you with His Blessings.
With love in Christ,
Carole Dubbert
Kevin, Christine, and Kenna Schneier says
Keith will be missed but will be in our hearts forever. We will not forget the night that Kevin and Keith played pool and Keith said that Kevin was a “Hussler and a Pool Shark” and wanted a rematch the next time there was a pool table around.
Peace be with you and now you are the Pool Shark Keith!