Donald Ross Keith, 62, of Spring Hill, Florida, passed away on October 10, 2025, due to cardiac arrest while attending cardiac rehabilitation, approximately two months after undergoing heart valve replacement surgery.

Don was born on November 21, 1962, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Merton and Joyce (Brundrett) Keith.

Don had a deep love for his family. At just 18 years old, he selflessly cared for his mother during her battle with cancer, demonstrating a level of compassion and strength that defined him throughout his life. He was a devoted brother to his sister, Vicki Deford, who preceded him in death after her own courageous fight with cancer, and a loving son to his father, Merton, who also battled the disease.

Above all else, Don was a proud and loving father to his three children and a cherished grandfather to five grandchildren. He passed down his love for hockey, classic rock, his stubbornness, and his unmistakable goofiness. Known affectionately by his nieces and nephews as “Knuckle Don,” he embraced life with humor and a playful spirit. His advice to his children, “Have fun, and don’t get hurt”, captured the way he hoped they would live their lives, even as his own adventurous streak grew alongside his love for all things Harley-Davidson.

Don spent the last four and a half years of his life in Florida but called Traverse City, Michigan home for much of his adult life. There, he built a successful career as an engraver with Trophy Trolley and Maxwell Medals & Awards, where his craftsmanship and dedication were well known.

He is survived by his children, Lindsay (Josh) Coates, Paige (Josh) Schauer, and Andrew (Hailey) Keith; his grandchildren, Asher Coates, Liam Coates, Alannah Coates, Rosalie Coates, and Callum Keith; his stepmother, Bonnie Keith; his former spouses, Jill Cheever and Gretchen Schmidt; his partner, Leah Lemond; and extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joyce Keith and Merton Keith; his stepmother, Patricia Keith; and his sister, Vicki Deford.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held by his children on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Mt. Holiday in Traverse City, Michigan. All are welcome to attend. Motorcycles are encouraged (weather permitting) and in honor of Don, guests are encouraged to wear Detroit Red Wings or Harley-Davidson attire, or casual clothing.

Don will be remembered for his humor and the love he had for his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and traditions he passed down to those who knew and loved him.