Keith Norman Christopher Wilkes.
Jan 15, 1934- Apr 22, 2023
It is with the heaviest of hearts and profound sadness that the family of Keith Norman Christopher Wilkes announces his peaceful passing.
The first of three children of Christopher and Kathleen Wilkes (Pickwell), he was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Predeceased by his eldest son Christopher (Jennifer) he leaves his sons Jeffrey (Debbie), David and Bruce (Ginette) and first wife Irene. Doting older brother to Helen (Charles Norman) and loving uncle to her children Kathleen, Melissa and Donald. Also, brother to Wayne (Linda) and their children Tara, Tyler and Christina. Adoring grandfather to Amanda and Ryan (Kira) and great-grandfather to Hunter and Addison. Loving husband of Constance McCann Wilkes and fondly remembered by her sons Kevin, Colin, Sean and his children Alexander, Andrea and Mathew as well as family friend Francine Lefebvre.
Keith proudly served with Canadian Forces Intelligence/Signals Corps until 1972 before being honorably released and starting a new career with DND-CSE as a translator/transcriber. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989 he accepted early retirement and concentrated on family while developing his personal talents and hobbies. An avid sport-fisherman and talented artist, he played a mean harmonica, loved chess and was an amateur military and Roman historian. And he loved his Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
He raised his sons well and we will never forget the profound effect he had on all our lives. We will always love you Dad and we miss you terribly already.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday May 7, 2023, at Beechwood Cemetery, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am and ceremony beginning at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers please donate to The Ottawa Heart Institute. If you would like to view a live video of the service, follow this link at the time of the ceremony: https://forever.link/beechwood/keith-norman-christopher-wilkes
Digital Guestbook
Anne Christian
Debbie Wilkes
I was so lucky to have had Keith as a father-in-law. He was so kind. Always ready with a story and a smile with a twinkle in his eye. I will miss him. He was a loving, generous grandfather that my children adored and loved and they will miss him terribly. Rest in Peace.
Ginette Wilkes
I could not have asked for a better father-in-law. I see him in all his sons. His way of telling a story was awesome and I get to hear that from Bruce every time he recounts a story involving Keith. I miss him already. Love you.
Jennifer Clarke Wilkes
Keith was so generous and welcoming, and just fun to be with. Even though it was very difficult for him, he came for a month-long visit with his son Chris during Chris's last months. I'm so grateful they had that time together. I will miss him a lot.
Kathleen Darby
Sending love to all. We will miss him very much.
Carol Toth
Saddened to hear of Keith's passing. He was a great man, always a smile, kind and gentle. His love for Connie was very evident in his caring for her. RIP Keith
Rest in peace dear Keith, and may light perpetual shine upon you.