Alice Lee Whitley Keck

Alice Lee Whitley Keck passed away on June 13, 2011 at Poudre Valley Hospital after many physical crises and years of progressive dementia. Baby Alice entered the loving arms of Tom and Myrtle Whitley and older sister, Betty on January 17, 1923 in Decatur, Illinois. Alice loved school and as a summer suntanned teenager, swimming at the pool. She had great love for her family and throughout her life related remembrances of her youth to her friends and acquaintances. She was particularly proud of her father's railroad career as a conductor on the Wabash Railroad and her mother's prowess on the piano especially the fact that petite Myrtle organized, led, and managed her own band in the early twentieth century, playing in Chicago. Alice married Ardy Keck, the little boy next door, on September 9, 1945. They were destined to be married 65 years until Ardy passed away December 4, 2010.
The newlyweds soon moved to Fort Collins, Colorado so Ardy could attend Forestry School at Colorado State University. The summers spent in Rocky Mountain National Park were filled with learning experiences and laughter as Ardy dealt with the many facets of his work and Alice attempted to learn to cook. Their friendship forged then with John and Betty Ellis endured throughout their lives. Alice and Ardy returned to Decatur, Illinois upon Ardy's graduation from college. Alice enjoyed living with her parents and was ecstatic when her only child, Craig was born on March 31, 1950. Craig became forever known as "Bo" when Alice's father gave the baby that nickname. In 1950 the little Keck family returned to Fort Collins and CSU where Alice worked in the bookkeeping department until retirement. Ardy and Alice then moved to their home at Rustic in Poudre Canyon.
In 1997 the Keck's gave up life in the mountains and moved into Fort Collins. Alice was a very social person and loved to interact with friends, acquaintances, even total strangers. The coffeepot was always on and everyone was welcome. She collected many things but her favorite collection was "people". She enjoyed playing bridge, china painting, gardening, mowing grass, arranging flowers, and most of all, entertaining. Alice was a devoted wife and mother, a steadfast friend. She will be revered by those who knew her before illness changed her. Alice is survived by her son, Craig Bo Keck and his wife, Jeanie of Bozeman, Montana; her brother, John Whitley of Decatur, Illinois and several nieces and a nephew. There will be no Memorial Service. Cremation will take place and will be interred at Poudre Canyon Chapel Memorial Garden. Written condolences may be sent to Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524.