Keith James Cameron

CAMERON, Keith James - Born on September 1937 in Sault Ste. Marie, the eldest son of the late Ida (Maki) and Wilfred Cameron. He left us peacefully on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the Ontario Finnish Resthome - Mauno Kaihla Koti.

Keith is remembered with love and gratitude by his beloved wife, Margaret, and their family - John and Ruth Cameron (Kanata, ON), Susan and Dan Dodson and Jim Cameron and Kim Christie (Kanata, ON). He was the cherished grandfather of Vincent Punch (Angela), Jennifer (Amber), Sean (Lexi) and Amy Dodson and Asha and Malcolm Cameron. Great-grandfather of Jaxon and Kiely LaRoque-Dodson.

Keith will be missed by his brothers-in-law Allan McPhee (Carole), Earl McPhee (Nancy), Lynn McPhee and Keith McPhee (Marg) and his sister-in-law Helen Dynie (Ernie). Keith was predeceased by his brothers, Glen and Ron Cameron, brother-in-law Jack McPhee, sister-in-law Betty McPhee and mother- and father-in-law Thelma and Murdoch McPhee. He is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, especially his youngest nephew Adam.

Keith was described as a curious and active youngster, traits that he carried with him throughout his life, becoming a collector extraordinaire. He was involved in Boy Scouts during his younger years and continued to volunteer his time with the organization for many years. He was a long-time employee of Bell Canada, where he made lifelong friends working as a phone installer/repair technician, climbing poles and ladders and always doing his best to fish wires through walls without leaving a trace. Stapling an exposed wire above a baseboard wasn’t part of his work practice.

Family was the centrepiece of Keith’s life. Proud of his Scottish and Finnish heritage, he was the family genealogist, sharing stories and anecdotes with all who were interested. A highlight of his life was a pilgrimage to Scotland with Margaret and travelling companions Glennie and Diane Marshall. Visiting his ancestral home, he felt a strong connection to the land and the people, spending time in cemeteries and meeting distant relatives.

Keith loved road trips and had an encyclopedic knowledge of travel routes and roadside restaurants that served good food, especially baking. Summers and holidays were spent travelling by car with family across Canada and the United States, always visiting relatives wherever he went. In retirement he took on the task of refurbishing the family camp at Island Lake, which was the site of many Cameron and Maki family reunions. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, whether it was playful roughhousing or watching them participate in sports and other activities. As they grew older, he was very proud of their many accomplishments.

Keith gave back to his community in many ways over the years, striving to make the world a better place. He volunteered with Bon Soo and Christmas Cheer on an annual basis, and was especially honoured to donate blood, making nearly 200 lifetime blood donations. Keith was a staunch supporter of the rights of the common person and strong public institutions, and a devoted volunteer at each provincial and federal election. For many years, he was a member of the local model railroad community, eventually establishing an impressive layout at Wellington Square Mall that many community members of all ages enjoyed over the years. His passion and skill in this area was unrivalled.

Thank you to all of those involved in Keith’s life and care over the past several years following his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Family, friends and his Reid Street neighbours helped Keith remain in the home that he helped his cousin, Jim Maki build in 1967 for as long as he could. Staff and volunteers at the Alzheimer’s Society - Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, including his walking partners, Susan Zub and Daniel Roy, provided programming and important support for Keith and his family members. A special acknowledgement is also necessary for the many caregivers who came to his home, especially Raj Sehgal, for his continual kindness. Finally, a big shout out to the dedicated and compassionate staff and volunteers at the Ontario Finnish Resthome - Mauno Kaihla Koti. Their commitment to Keith and his family, especially during his final days, was steadfast and heartfelt.

Family and friends may join for a Celebration of Life on Friday, November 6, 2026, between 11:00 am - 12:45 pm at Willowgrove United Church (55 Tilley Road). Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 pm with Rev Glen Eagle officiating. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow the service. Friends are invited to view the service online anytime up to 90 days, go to www.funeraweb.tv and select Keith's name. Memorial contributions to the Alzheimer Society - Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, the Ontario Finnish Resthome Association, Willowgrove United Church or to the charity of your choice will be gratefully appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street, East; 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com

"Peace I leave you, my peace I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."