Dayton Callum Keith

Born in North Vancouver, BC on June 15th, 1998. Predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Vernon and Joanne Keith and maternal grandfather Randall Mathewson. Survived by his Father, Terry Dayton Keith (Meghan Liddle), Mother, Shanley Mathewson (Dave Fergus), little sister Brianne, big sister Lateisha (Matt Moody), his nieces Alaia and Ari, Nana Jacqui Setter, many aunts and uncles and cousins.

Dayton Callum Keith, 25 years young, was born in North Vancouver at Lions Gate Hospital where his Father and sisters were born. He was raised and spent most of his life in the Comox Valley, graduating from Mark R. Isfeld in 2016. He was always smiling, grinning, and laughing as a young child who always looked out for his baby sister. He loved all sports, especially hockey, as well as video games and a shared passion for cars with his father. Dayton also loved fishing, music, (even fancied himself quite the rapper for a while) he had a big heart and loved all animals. Not known for his cooking abilities but was quite the Pho noodle chef for a while.

Hockey took him to many places across the province and provided him with opportunities to meet many new friends along the way. Dayton’s life can be described as too short a life, an unfinished life with so many experiences ahead of him.

It's every parent's worst nightmare to lose a child, but it is another terror altogether when it comes via the vice grip of addiction. Dayton departed this life on Friday December 1, 2023. The life ahead of this young man was extinguished by a senseless drug.

We can only hope he knows how deeply he was loved. And love him, we did, unconditionally through the good and the bad times. May you go in peace, Dayton. Your tired and relentless struggle is over. You were a wonderful soul who fought a hard battle. We will always love you!

It is the family’s hope that the cruel disease of addiction and mental health will trend toward a broader degree of acceptance and de-stigmatization and a sense of urgency will be brought to this brutal health crisis affecting so many families. Donations to The Comox Valley Recovery Centre in his memory would be appreciated. (e-transfer to: [email protected] or cheques to 641 Menzies Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 3C3)

A Celebration of Life & Memorial Service for Family and friends to come and share fond memories and stories will be held in the Spring of 2024 with details to follow in the new year.