Michael N. Keathley

Michael Keathley

In memory of a wonderful man that filled many roles. His most cherished were being a father to Peyton and Mason, and being a traditional and loving husband to Julie, for nearly 15 years. Michael also loved the world of politics and served as the Commissioner of the Office of Administration for Gov. Matt Blunt from Jan 2004 until his death. This role was essentially that of the Chief Financial Officer for the State of Missouri. Mike was able to see beyond the numbers on the pages and pages of reports, and put the entire picture together. As part of Gov Blunt''s administration, Mike was able to save taxpayers of Missouri, and, help taxpayers get more for their money in Jeff City, which he truly delighted! Mike had several interests outside of his family and politics, including the Boy Scouts of America, coin collecting, architecture, Civil War History, trains & rail roading, and increasing services throughout the state and in the school systems for autistic individuals. (His youngest son was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3 years and they were advised by a physician in St. Louis to institutionalize him immediately because he would never amount to anything!) It was then that the state of Missouri rose from 42nd in the nation for services for autistic individuals to being ranked number five! Peyton, Mason and I continue to miss Mike every single day. He was able to accomplish more in his life, that was cut short, than many people do in several life times. He loved life, had a great faith and never gave up that he would lose his fight to rectal cancer. He was diagnosed at the age of 46 and fought a courageous battle for nearly five years, surrounding himself with only doctors that had a positive outlook AND had faith in a higher power. Here''s to you, Mike, a big hug and kiss from the boys and me until we meet again, my "Pweethus Spoose!"