Sept. 21, 1927-Oct. 13, 2009
Age: 82
Residence: Greeley
Richard W. “Dick” Keirnes was born in Greeley to Charles and Mabel Keirnes. He lived with his family on their farm north of Eaton. After graduation from Eaton High School in 1945, Dick joined the U.S. Navy and was accepted into the V-5 naval aviator flight training program. He attended Cornell University and Colorado A&M University as part of the V-5 program. After completing his flight training, Dick received his wings and a commission as an ensign.
On April 4, 1950, he married his high school sweetheart, Louise Holmes, in Eaton. Dick and Louise then returned to San Diego, where Dick was stationed with Fighter Squadron 53 until his honorable discharge in June of 1950.
After his service, Dick and Louise returned to farming near Eaton. The family grew to five with the births of three sons, Duncan, Doug, and Tom. In 1960 they moved to Greeley where Dick began his real estate career, receiving numerous awards for his work including Realtor of the Year. In 1985, Dick was elected as Weld County Assessor, and he served until 1990. He also spent many years sharing his financial knowledge and love for the Lord through Christian financial counseling. He helped many people learn the best ways to use their resources, both financially and spiritually.
Dick retired in 1990, continuing his counseling services and other ventures as long as his health allowed. He relished his time with his grandchildren. Their visits always included complete attention and planned adventures by both loving grandparents.
His business ventures never kept him away from his main focus — his family. He attended many games and concerts and, with Louise, brought up three fine young men who exemplify his respect for those around him, love for the Lord, and the ability to put God and family as a first priority. Even the way he dealt with his extended illness is a testament to his faith and courage.
Dick passed away at Northern Colorado Medical Center.
Survivors: His wife of 59 years, Louise; his sons, Duncan (Elinor) of Sioux Falls, S.D.; Doug (Sue) of Littleton and Tom (Maureen) of Sammamish, Wash.; his grandchildren, Annie, Mathew, Cameron, Nicole, Blake and Linnea Keirnes. He is also survived by his sister, Annabelle (Dick) Rutherford of Fort Collins, and many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by: His parents, Charles and Mabel; and a brother, Lynn.
Service: 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at First Congregational Church of Eaton-Ault. Memorials may be made to First Congregational Church of Eaton-Ault.