Gerald “Keith” Rice

Gerald “Keith” Rice

August 11, 1939 – February 12, 2020

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Rice of Asquith. Keith passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, February 12, 2020. He was born in Saskatoon on August 11, 1939 and raised in Asquith. The farm at Eagle Creek held a special place in his heart. 

He proudly served in the Royal Canadian Air Force as an Avionics Technician from 1958 to 1983, stationed in Saskatoon, Rivers, Portage La Prairie, Germany and Winnipeg. Baden-Soellingen, Germany was an adventure for him and his young family, touring much of Europe and Great Britain, leaving many fond memories. He returned to Canada in 1970 with a transfer to Winnipeg, where he remained until his retirement from service. The final move brought him home to Asquith where he ‘toiled at the coil’ at the Flexi-coil Parts department for over twenty years.

His proudest achievement would be his role as a remarkable Dad and Papa.

In latter years Keith kept busy with a daily routine designed to keep his mind and body in tune. A constant reader and crossword lover, he would amaze us with his depth of knowledge. The wide interests of his children and grandchildren were always engaged with ease in conversation. When the occasional crossword clue would have him stumped we would welcome the call to get onto google. He sang. All day. If he was moving he was singing. He was a longtime fan of the Winnipeg Jets, curling and Coronation Street. He decided a few years ago he would enjoy ice-cream and cookies every day…for lunch. The three generations he leaves behind each have a collection of treasured notes. Whether left on the kitchen table with detailed chore instructions or mailed to those far away, with cash tucked in for treats, they were little bits of genius, hilarious creations that made you feel special or turned otherwise mundane tasks into joy while you read. His body got the daily workout with the swiffer and his daily tour to the local Co-op and post office, where he enjoyed the occasional conversation.

Keith aka Papa will be forever missed and lovingly remembered by his children; Greg Rice, Dawn Graham (Brian) and Shelley Rice; their mother Marilyn; his grandchildren Jennifer Johner, Ty Graham and Marlon Rice; his great grandchildren Laine and Harley Johner; his brothers and sisters Denny (Sharon), Lynne Davidson (Woody), Barry (Peggy) and Janice Rawlyk (Brad), sister-in-law Donna, brothers-in-law Dale Friesen and Larry McLellan; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Predeceased by his parents Gordon and Nancy (nee Fairbrother); stepmother Doris; in-laws Lorne and Mary McLellan; brother Ken Rice and his wife Dot; sister Shirley Friesen; brother Bud Rice; brothers in-law Neil Davidson, Don, Lloyd and David McLellan; nephews Les and Todd Friesen; great niece Jamie Stack; and great nephews Jesse Friesen and Cody Rice. 

A special thank you to the responders who answered our call and treated our father and us with kindness, compassion and respect.

Keith requested there be no formal service. He wanted, specifically, a wiener roast, where we would remember him with stories and laughter. A celebration of his life will be held in August 2020. 

In lieu of flowers, please send a five dollar bill or two along with a special note to someone you love.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.