April 14, 1933 – June 18, 2023
Keith E. Shader was born April 14, 1933, to Bryan and Ellen Shader in Fort Collins, CO and died June 18, 2023 (Father’s Day) at Pathways Hospice.
Keith and his four brothers grew up on their family farm in the Harmony community. He attended grade/middle school at Harmony School and graduated as valedictorian from Timnath High School. During this time, he met his future wife, Barbara Williamson. She was still in high school as he attended Colorado A&M. Keith wrestled at the 123 lb. class, lettered and graduated from Colorado A&M in 1955.
Keith and Barbara were married December 28, 1955. That same year he began his teaching career at Cache La Poudre High School. In 1964 he helped open the new Poudre High School where he taught math, physics but primarily chemistry. He was Runner-up Teacher of the Year for the State of Colorado in 1981. He coached wrestling, football and track. He started the wrestling programs for both La Porte and Poudre high schools. He retired from teaching in 1988.
Keith and Barb have three daughters. He was very involved with all their activities whether it was academic, 4-H or athletics.
In the spring and summer, he, Barb and the girls grew three acres of gladiola flowers that they sold to florists and farmer’s markets. He was an active member of the La Porte Presbyterian Church.
Keith is survived by his wife Barbara; his daughters: Coleen (Loren) Miller of Gillette, WY (formerly of Isabel), Shawna (Jim) McKenna of Fort Collins, CO and Kelly (Dan) Haferman of Fort Collins; five grandsons and their families: Wade, Shanna, Chevy and Casin Miller; Scott Miller and Hailey; Kyle McKenna, Brianna, Kyndal and Kayden; Jason and Audrey Haferman and Ryan Haferman. He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, several cousins and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Friday, June 23, 2023 at the Laporte Presbyterian Church, Laporte, CO.
Memorial gifts can be made to La Porte Presbyterian Church or Pathways Hospice c/o Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive St., Fort Collins, CO 80524.