Keith T. Walden

Keith Thomas Walden, 75, of Lenexa, Kansas passed away on November 24, 2023, from Lewy Body Dementia.

Keith was predeceased by his parents, Woodrow E., and Rose M. (Bonich) Walden, and an infant sister.  He is survived by his children, George (Kate) Walden and Jayme Walden; his grandchildren, Bennett, Hannah, Harper, and Niko; and ex-wife and friend Deborah (Diane) Lytle.

Keith was born May 8, 1948, in Kansas City, Missouri.  He grew up in Kansas City, Kansas where he attended Catholic schools, graduating from Bishop Ward High School.  Keith then graduated from Emporia State University with a degree in economics.  He was a proud veteran, having served in the 1st Air Calvary Division of the U.S. Army from May 1969 to March 1973 as a radio telephone operator, during which time he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and Army Commendation Medal.  Keith worked for the U.S. Department of Defense and then the Social Security Administration, retiring with over 35 years of civil service.

Keith enjoyed sports, especially baseball.  He played coed softball most of his adult life and was playing in a men’s softball league at the time he celebrated his 70th birthday.  He loved the Kansas City Royals and attended many spring training camps in Arizona; he was also an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan.  He enjoyed the many sports his children and grandchildren played; whether it was softball, baseball, basketball, soccer, or cheerleading he could always be found amongst the fans watching the game, helping coach, or keeping score.  He loved riding his motorcycle and made numerous trips to Sturgis, SD to attend the annual Sturgis Rally.  Keith always looked forward to a cold Miller Lite.

Keith leaves behind family and friends that loved and will miss him dearly.

A memorial services will be held Wednesday, December 6th at 12:30PM at Amos Family Funeral Home, Shawnee, Kansas. Interment of Keith’s ashes will take place at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas at 2:30PM, with a 21-gun salute and flag presentation.

“In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Keith’s honor to the Missouri Western State University Baseball Program. Keith was an ardent supporter of the baseball program for over two decades, long after his son was finished playing. Starting this Spring, Keith Walden’s name will forever be attached to an annual camp held on MWSU’s campus. You can Venmo any and all donations to (son) George Walden @George-Walden-3 or make checks payable to “MWSU Baseball.”

Checks may be brought to the memorial service or mailed to: The Walden Family, 6024 Lakecrest Drive, Shawnee, Kansas, 66218. Thank you!”