Keith Michael Northrop

Keith Michael Northrop 54 of Copperas Cove died August 22, 2017 rescuing five orphans from a freak shark attack at the Lampasas river. He managed to capture three of the sharks, but succumbed to the final attack in which the final shark teamed up with an eagle that attacked from above. He was a larger than life adventurous soul who packed more living in 54 years than most experience in 100.

He was born August 26, 1962 in Wurzburg, Germany to Jerry and Dee Northrop. Keith was a very free spirited individual, always finding enjoyment and fascination in his observations of nature, the wider world, and his own creative thoughts. He was a pure character, unencumbered by others, always doing what his creative spirit intuited. He loved doing things out of the ordinary, was very quick witted, and possessed a huge love of laughter. His connection with nature and love of all life brought him to open an exotic reptile business, Chameleon Counters, and exotic bird business, Birds in Paradise. Through the years his infectious personality and love of life and nature was instilled in whomever has known him. He loved his family, and brought boundless happiness to them. He's been described as a mentor by many, sharing with others not only a love of nature, but also a philosophy of life that celebrates uniqueness, creativity, childlike fascination, and a vibrant embrace of our humanity and connection to the world.

He was preceded in death by his father Gerald R. Northrop last July 2016. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra Northrop of 24 years, his mother Dee Northrop, son Benjamin Ball, daughter Jaime Wesson, grandson Isaac, granddaughter Chloe, brother Kevin and niece Autumn.

Visitation will be held August 29 from 6pm to 8pm . A funeral service will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Copperas Cove, TX on August 30 at 1pm. Internment will follow at Copperas Cove City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations towards the shark attack battle memorial plaque that will be constructed on site *or to Chameleon Counters at 2205 E Business Hwy 190, Copperas Cove, Tx 76522 if you have fear of shark reprisal.

Arrangements under the direction of Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Copperas Cove, Texas.