Keith Harden

Keith G. Harden, age 83, of Marine on St. Croix died peacefully at home after a year-long battle with cancer on August 28, 2026. He was born September 26, 1942 in Lakeville, MN to Gurland and Mildred Harden. Keith married Nancy Noel on January 24,1964. Together they shared 64 years and raised four children: Dawn, Kim, Daniel, and Kari.

Keith spent 60 fulfilling years in Marine on St. Croix, where he built his home and became a beloved member of the community. He enjoyed watching wildlife, tending his large vegetable garden, and taking in the sunrise over the hills in the mornings.

Family was the center of Keith's life. Often known as "coach" amongst his son's friends, Keith participated in his children's sports teams and never missed his grandchildren's events. He was immensely proud of each of his children and their accomplishments, and he brought laughter, goofy smiles, and the echoing of his booming voice in every room he entered. Keith earned his nickname "Chief" for many different reasons in the following years.

Keith was a dedicated union electrician and proud member of I.B.E.W #110 St. Paul. He was honored to share his career and commitment everywhere he went. He worked for 37 years, and retired in 2003.

Keith and Nancy enjoyed traveling in their camper during retirement before spending 15 summers at Timberline Campground in Sturgeon Lake. Their summers were filled with potlucks, friendships, family visits, and memories. Keith was well known for walking his dog and cruising the campground in his golf cart, decorated with flags and dice, often carrying as many grandchildren as he could fit riding with him.

An outdoorsman at heart, Keith enjoyed pheasant and deer hunting, fishing, and spending time in Bemidji and Iron River with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed family campfires, beautiful scenery, he taught his family his love for cribbage and croquet games, and sharing slideshows of their adventures every year on vacation. Keith highlighted the importance of taking photos.

Keith's pride, love, and joy was shown through his children and family, but immensely shown through his wife Nancy. He loved, honored, and cared for her in his own special way. Their 64 years together were the heart of the life they built and a love that will remain forever.

Keith is survived by his wife, Nancy; children Dawn Johnson, Kim Granger, Dan (Liz) Harden, and Kari (Pat) Wilke; grandchildren Jennafer, Morganne, Lauren, Mitchell, Dylan, Ryan, Caitlin, Brooke, and Lyndsey; great-grandchildren Quinn and Granger; brother Richard Harden; nephews Jeff Harden, Michael Harden (Dee), niece Terri Herrmann (Paul), nephew Rick Gargasz (Kelly); and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gurland and Mildred Harden; in-laws Robert and Carol Noel; sisters-in-law Anita Gargasz and Rochelle Harden.

Keith will be remembered for his love of family, hard work, the outdoors, laughter, and the many memories he created with those he loved. He will forever remain in our hearts.

A private family graveside service will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Oakland Cemetery in Marine on St. Croix.