John 'Keith' Both Obituary John Keith Both, 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith in Christ, quiet strength, humility, and spirited adventure. Born the eldest of four boys, Keith grew up under the steady guidance of kind yet disciplined parents who instilled in him a love of God and values of integrity, hard work, and loyalty. His mother, in particular, was a fierce supporteralways ready to back her boys no matter what trouble they managed to stir up (and with four of them, there was no shortage). From an early age, Keith led not with words but by example. Whether it was in the home, the boardroom, or Church, his calm demeanor and unwavering positivity drew people in. He had a knack for putting others at ease, and a gift for listening that made family, friends, colleagues, and even chance acquaintances feel seen and valued. For 35 years, Keith worked at Lutheran Brotherhood (now, Thrivent), in various capacities ending as Senior Vice President of Marketing, where he was deeply respected for his strategic mind, ethical leadership, and natural ability to bring people together. He approached his work the way he approached lifewith sincerity, determination, and just the right amount of fun to keep things interesting. After retiring, Keith and his beloved wife, Colleen, settled in the Brainerd Lakes Area, where he continued his lifelong love of speed driving his Corvette, boating, or taking motorcycle and snowmobile trips with lifelong friends. He was a man whose heart belonged first and foremost to his family and his faith. Every decision he made was guided by a deep devotion to God and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. In both quiet moments and great challenges, his actions spoke of a life centered on love, sacrifice, and steadfast beliefs. To him, nothing mattered more than serving his family with kindness and walking in faith with humility. Those who knew Keith will remember him as humble, generous, and quietly adventurous. He had a sharp wit and a soft heart, a strong moral compass, and an unshakable sense of optimism. Above all, he was deeply lovedand he loved deeply in return. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Colleen (Olson); children, Kris (Mike) Murray, Kim (Jim) Cruz, Anne (Mike) Bartow, and Justin (Jessica) Wohlrabe; grandchildren, Samantha (Sam) Schneider, Connor Cruz, Jack Murray, Cassidy Cruz, Michael Bartow, Greta Wohlrabe, Elliot Bartow, and Oliver Wohlrabe; brothers, Marshall (Phyllis) Both and Rod Both; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Eloise (Vogen) Both; brother, Stan; and in-laws, Norma and Orvin Olson. A Celebration of Keith's Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Nisswa. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior and to stay for a reception and memories to follow the service.