Keith Frederick Werbeach

Born in Painesville, Ohio, the son of William Kenneth Werbeach and Lois Elaine (née Robinett) Werbeach. Keith spent his childhood fishing, playing sports, driving cross-country to national parks, and enjoying his mother's cooking alongside his three brothers, Kenneth, Ramone, and Lawrence, and his sister Robyn.

After graduating from Harvey High School, Keith attended Bowling Green State University, where he swam for his Falcons. Even before completing his degree in Education, Keith began working for the Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities at Metzenbaum Sheltered Industries, and ultimately rose to the role of Production Manager. After several decades at Metz, he became Director of Maple Leaf Community Residences, in which position he concluded his 40-year career serving adults with disabilities.

Keith's dedication to supporting his community extended beyond his profession. He contributed to mission work through his church and coached the Special Olympics, during which time he met his wife Deborah. He served as President of both the Chesterland Rotary Club and Chesterland Chamber of Commerce. And, for years deceiving even his own daughters, he made myriad appearances around town as Santa Claus each December, most notably at the Rotary Club’s Breakfast with Santa, but also at Metzenbaum Preschool and the Chester Township tree-lighting ceremony.

But above all else, Keith loved to spend time with his family. He was a devoted husband to Debbie and a compassionate father to twin daughters Jessica and Shannon. He filled their lives with laughter and their free time with curiosity and learning by way of trips to zoos, museums, and science centers. They took vacations to the beach (Keith loved to ride the waves) and adventured to the wildest and most wonder-filled corners of the country- journeying to national parks and forests like those his favorite artist, Ansel Adams, might photograph. When his daughters were young, they might pass the time by taking out the boat or hunting for golf balls. In adulthood, they brewed beer, deep-fried turkeys and chicken wings, took nature walks, and sang along to Neil Young albums together.

Keith was a goofy, kind-hearted, fiercely loyal husband, father, and friend, and his company will be dearly missed by all those who had the good fortune to feel his presence in their lives.

Keith's life will be remembered and celebrated on October 25th at the Church of the Western Reserve, located at 30500 Fairmount Blvd in Cleveland, OH. The family will host visiting hours from 12:30 until 2:30PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:30PM. Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home handled the arrangements. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.