Donald R. Keys

MSG (Ret) Donald R. Keys, son of the late Paul Alvin and Catherine (Winbun) Keys, was born May 22, 1940 in Louisville, Kentucky where he grew up and graduated from school. He was a member of the Beachmont Baptist Church in Louisville. In August 1960, Don was drafted into the United States Army. He came to the Fort Leonard Wood area in 1963. He served his country faithfully and earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: Combat Infantry Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Drill Sergeant ID Badge, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Silver Service Star, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star, Army Commendation Medal w/Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), Expert Qualification Badge M16, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Don had attained the rank of Master Sergeant and retired after 20 years of service. On May 30, 1964, Don was united in marriage to Judith “Judy” Ann Vogt in Milo, Missouri. They shared over 44 years of marriage together and were blessed with two sons: Donald Keys Jr. and Dean Keys. Judy preceded him in death in August 2008. After retiring from the military, Don began working for Kemper Military School and then began working for Toms & Sons on Fort Leonard Wood until 1992. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors; whether it was hunting or fishing. Don was very active in several clubs and organizations. He was Post Commander of the Francis J. Lynch VFW Post 3168 from 1993 – 1995 and then District Commander from 1997 – 1998. He was a member of the Plato Masonic Lodge #469, the Scottish Rite in Joplin, Abou Ben Adem Shrine in Springfield and the Pulaski County Shrine Club. He truly enjoyed being a part of each organization. Don loved his family and enjoyed getting to spend every moment he could with them, especially the grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Don passed away Thursday, April 11, 2013 in his home having attained the age of 72 years, 10 months and 20 days. Don leaves to cherish his memory two sons: Donald Keys, Jr. (Michelle) of O’Fallon, IL and Dean Keys (Rebecca) of Osage Beach, MO; four siblings: Barbara Driver of Milo, MO, Johnny Bryant of Louisville, KY, Media Wohlhart of Mesa, AZ and Marion Wooke of Flora, IN; six grandchildren: Courtney, Aaron, Dustin, Terry, Britney and Corey; one great grandchild; other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Don was preceded in death by one brother, Paul Keys, Jr.

Donald R. Keys

May 5, 1940 - April 11, 2013