Keith Wayne Iverson, 83, of St. Francis, WI, passed away Friday, January 26, 2024, in South Milwaukee, WI, surrounded by his family.
Keith was born November 27, 1940, in Lake Mills, IA, to Chris and Eleanor (née Moe) Iverson. His family then moved Milwaukee, WI, where he grew up. He graduated from South Milwaukee High School and met his wife, Judith Iverson (née Statkus), in 1962. They were married on November 28, 1964, and had two sons together. They made their home in St. Francis, WI, for 37 years before moving to Necedah, WI, for over 20 years; they then relocated back to St. Francis, WI, in 2022.
Keith started work as an operator, and a member of the Operating Engineers Local 139, with Bane-Nelson and Sons in Kenosha, WI, but was called to Vietnam for active military duty in 1965. Keith was a proud Navy veteran, having served two tours, the second of which was part of the Navy Seabees. Upon his return to WI in 1967, he continued work with Bane-Nelson for several years, ultimately moving on to work for Edward E. Gillen Company, where he finished out his career. Keith recently celebrated 60 years as a proud member of the Operating Engineers Local 139, of which is grandson Cameron is currently an active member.
In 2022, Keith was selected to take part in an Honor Flight, and was proudly accompanied by his granddaughter Samantha, who was responsible for signing Keith up as a participant. Through the Honor Flight, he was able to visit memorials, share his experiences, meet with other veterans, and receive the welcome home he deserved.
In his retirement, Keith spent time traveling with Judi, often going on cruises with close friends. They cruised the Bahamas multiple times, and Australia and New Zealand, which was a particular favorite. Keith also taught part-time at the Operating Engineers Local 139 Training Center in Coloma, WI, lending his expertise, knowledge, and many stories of his past. He was an avid member of several antique tractor clubs, traveling around the state to various shows over the years.
He is preceded in death by his parents Chris and Eleanor, his infant brother Gene, his sister Phyllis (Dean) Berglund, and his nephew Chris Berglund.
Keith is survived by his wife Judi, his sons Jay (Kate) and Todd, his grandchildren Samantha (Andrew) Pasdertz, and Cameron Iverson, his niece Carla Berglund, his great-nephew Brandyn Berglund, and many friends. Keith will be remembered for his love of tractors, his hard work ethic, his commitment to friends, his kind and giving nature, and his devotion to his family. He will be dearly missed by many.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Operating Engineers Local 139 Training Center in Coloma, WI, so that others can continue in Keith's passion. Make checks payable to
The Operating Engineers Training Center
:
OE 139 Training Center
W11584 State Hwy 21
Coloma, WI 54930