Jeffrey William Keith

Jeffrey William Keith, 41, beloved husband, father, son and friend, passed away Friday July 26, 2013 at Mercy Hospice, Johnston, IA, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Jeff was a devoted husband to Janalee and loving father to Kaden and Jaxon. Whether it was playing ball, teaching them to ride their bikes, or snuggling with them, he always let them know how much they were loved.

Jeff was born October 22, 1971 in Fremont, NE, to William and Barbara Keith. During his childhood his family was transferred often, but he always called Salt Lake City home. From the time of his diagnosis, Jeff and Janalee's parents provided a great source of love and support for Jeff and his family. Whether it be taking the boys to school, attending doctor's appointments, or providing their constant love, they were always there for them.

He graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1990. He was a graduate of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he was a member of the Phi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. It was there that he met the friends he called "brothers".

He was employed with Hormel Food Corp for the past 13 years, which took them to Utah, Michigan, Southern California, Idaho, Minnesota and Iowa. Words cannot express how thankful we are for all of the love and support provided by Hormel over the last 18 months.

He married the love of his life, Janalee Jeppson on May 18, 2002 in Salt Lake City, Utah. They were best friends, partners in life, and soulmates. It was her honor to care for and love him unconditionally in sickness and in health. They were blessed with two precious gifts, Kaden (8) and Jaxon (5).

Aside from being a dedicated career and family man, Jeff loved the outdoors. He was an avid golfer, skier, mountain biker, fly fisherman, and waterfowl hunter. His intense love and laughter will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be forever loved and cherished by his devoted wife, Janalee; sons, Kaden and Jaxon; his parents, William and Barbara Keith, Keller TX; sister, Ashley (Billy Todd) Lide, Allen, TX; brother, Tyler Keith, Keller TX; and extended family and numerous friends.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandfather, Charles Keith; grandmothers, Elfrieda Giles, Dorothy Ferrara; and uncle, Terry Keith.

Special thanks to Dr. Thomas Burpker, who went above and beyond to love and care for Jeff and his family. All of the doctors and nurses involved in Jeff's care were greatly appreciated, especially the wonderful nurses at Mercy Hospice, Johnston.

Visitation will be held at Hamilton's on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines on Friday, August 2, 2013 from 4 to 8 p.m. A celebration of his life will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, on Saturday, August 3 at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family for the care of Kaden and Jaxon. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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