Elizabeth Keys Obituary

Elizabeth O. Keys

Elizabeth O. Keys, 83, of Ames, Iowa, passed away December 3, 2014 at Israel Family Hospice House. A memorial celebration was held Saturday, December 6 at St. John's by the Campus Episcopal Church in Ames. Burial of the cremated remains was in the Garden Columbarium at St. John's.

Elizabeth O. Keys was born August 4, 1931 to Russell and Bernadine (Dwelly) Kuhn in Washington D.C. Liz received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Northwestern University. Upon graduation, Liz moved to San Diego where she sang with the Starlight Opera Company. There she met Colin Keys and they were married in July 1955.

Liz was a talented singer, actress, and director. She loved to travel and had many adventures. Her hobbies included quilting, bird watching, supporting the performing arts, and she was an avid fan of Northwestern and Iowa State sports. She completed her teaching license at the University of Northern Iowa and taught music.

Liz had a deeply rooted faith that she shared through her music ministry in the Episcopal church wherever she lived. Her faith was shared in the community as well through many volunteer activities as well as social and philanthropic organizations.

Liz loved her family. She is survived by her children, Stephen (Lisa) Keys, of Lawrence, Kansas, Natalie (Mike) Welter, of Story City and Linda Berger, of Lawrence; eight grandchildren, Megan (Bryan) Chorley, Geoffrey Keys, Rebekah Keys, Joshua (Anna Jennerjohn) Welter, Nicholas (Leslie) Welter, Christopher Berger, Joseph Berger and Katherine Berger; and six great-grandchildren, Bryleigh, Trista, Jeslyn, Jackson, Keelyn and Sol.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Colin; and two brothers, Dennis Kuhn and Russell Kuhn, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, please visit www.adamssoderstrum.com to view memorials, leave a condolence or share a photo.

Adams Funeral Home in Ames is assisting the family with arrangements.