Tom Spitale
When I was a young man romantically interested in Keith's much younger sister, Dawn, he could be an intimidating presence as I visited 1607 Payne St. It seemed that every time Dawn and I decided to kiss or hug, he would somehow suddenly show up in the room and express his disapproval. But I soon began to see that his bark was much worse than his bite. He loved his sister and though he had a difficult time with outward affection, this "chaperoning" was one of the ways he expressed his care for Dawn.
As time moved on and I married Dawn and adopted Sarah, he realized that my intentions were honorable and he would occasionally compliment me in a very subtle way. It always meant a lot to me because, well, I would say that he didn't hand compliments out frivolously.
The best was at Sarah's high school graduation party, where he straight-up thanked me for being a good dad and husband to Sarah and Dawn. It was so genuine that I will never forget it. I'm sure it wasn't easy for him to say it, but coming from him, it was one of the sincerest and most appreciated expressions of gratitude I ever received.
Rest in peace, Keithy
