Kimberlie Keith Gaarde

Kimberlie Keith Gaarde, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, in Fresno, California, at the age of 63. Born in Montebello, California, on May 26, 1961, to Linda Perry and Roger Keith, Kim’s life was a testament to love, faith, and resilience.

Kim leaves behind her mother, Linda Andrade; her loving husband of 20 years, Eric Gaarde; children Brittnie Hammack, Kyle Hammack, Robby Gaarde, Jenna Gaarde, and Lucas Gaarde; and cherished grandchildren Travis Hammack, Blake Hammack, Carson Hammack, Ryker Ray, Elijah Gaarde, and Julian Noori. She is also survived by her brother, Perry Keith; her sister, Sierra Andrade; sister-in-law, Karren Keith; nephew, Daniel Keith and niece, Kelly Keith and many extended family members and dear friends. Kim was predeceased by her father, Roger Keith, and her son, Chad Hammack, who was an identical twin to Kyle. Her step-father, Al Gilliam, was also a very large part of her life.

Kim’s career spanned over 35 years in the produce industry, where she made a lasting impact. She began her career at Sadoian Brothers as their controller before joining Gaarde Food Source and Services and Fruit Dynamics as CFO in 2004, following her marriage to Eric. Known for her strong character and vast expertise, Kim led several innovative projects and was highly respected in the industry.

Kim was a woman of deep faith. She loved God with all her heart and was dedicated to sharing His love with others. Kim was actively involved in Bible studies, offering her support to friends and family in their own spiritual journeys. Her caring and compassionate nature helped strengthen the Christian beliefs of many around her.

Family was everything to Kim. Her children and grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she recently remarked, “Good luck with your heart, you will NEVER be the same!” when speaking of the love she felt for her grandchildren. Kim was devoted to spending as much time as possible with her loved ones, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Kim was a warrior in every sense of the word, overcoming numerous challenges in her life with grace and courage. Despite the struggles, she reached a place of peace and love, and her spirit was a beacon of hope to all who knew her.

In her free time, Kim loved to visit the ocean, with Pismo Beach being her favorite spot. She enjoyed cooking, reading, working on home projects, and listening to Christian music, particularly the song “Strong” by Anne Wilson, which resonated deeply with her.

Kim will be remembered for her unwavering love, her enduring faith, and her fierce devotion to her family. She touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 3:00PM at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 Nees Avenue, Fresno, CA 93720.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kim's memory to Changing Lives Resource Center (https://www.clrcenter.org) or mailed to: 895 W. Ashlan Ave Suite 102 Clovis, CA 93612