February 9, 1943 - July 21, 2024
With sadness, we announce the passing of Keith Maurice Rainford on July 21, 2024.
Keith was born in Toronto, Ontario to Lyla and Maurice Rainford. He grew up in London Ontario and graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a degree in Chemical Engineering. Keith joined 3M Canada shortly after graduation and worked at 3M for 35 years. His career was marked with dedication and integrity.
Keith met his wife, Kathleen Thorsley, on a blind date in London, Ontario. They were married for 58 years. Together, they raised three children: Marnie, Susanne and Gregory. Keith enjoyed being a father and grandfather.
In 1977, the young family moved to Woodbury, Minnesota to 3M’s headquarters where they planted roots and forged lifelong friendships.
Keith was athletic and had a passion for sports. He loved golf, curling, squash, tennis and biking. He coached youth sports and played 3rd base on company softball team.
He loved to cook, preparing the Christmas turkey and his mother’s stuffing, perfecting his oatmeal raisin cookie recipe, and making ‘Dad’ McMuffins.
After retiring, Keith volunteered at Royal Oaks Elementary School, collected rare hosta varieties, documented the Rainford / Cather family genealogy, and travelled the world with Kathy.
He was whip-smart: someone you definitely wanted on your Trivia Pursuit team. He continued passion for life-long learning with classes at St. Thomas.
Keith will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Kathy, His children Marnie (Kent Taylor) Susanne, and Gregory (Stephanie Keller), and his grandchildren, Evan and Sophia.
Keith is also survived his sister, Donna and his brother, Paul (Pam).
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. As expressions of sympathy memorial donations may be made to West Perth Village through the W. G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron St, Stratford, ON. www.wgyounfuneralhome.com
