Neil Scott Keator

Neil Scott Keator was born June 28, 1979, in Pueblo, CO. Departed this life March 7, 2017. Preceded in death by grandparents, Cecil Neill, Lowell and Neva Keator; Uncle Bill VanLandingham; cousins, Amy and Jessica Keator, Tammy and Julie Wallace, Cija Winner. He is survived by his parents, Wanda Keator, and Paul (Denise) Keator; grandmother, Audrey Neill; sister Becki (Ben Basham) Keator, stepsiblings, Jennifer Friend, James Howay, his nephew and nieces, Knox, Brianna, Alexis, and Cassie, uncles and aunts; Lonnie Neill (Debbie Barakat), Marty (Seth) Winner, Rhonda Johnson, Norman (Alice) Keator, Mike (Sue) Keator, Sarah Keator, Charlotte (Mike) Boyd, Francie (Thom) Beaudette, Jeanne (Steve) Stewart, Jimmy (Maryanne) Keator. Neil was a beautiful soul and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Memorial services 11 a.m. March 15 at Imperial Cemetery Hwy 78 West Pueblo, CO 81004.Arrangements under the direction of Imperial Funeral Home, Pueblo, CO

Neil was a remarkable young man. Neil Scott Keator was born June 28, 1979, in Pueblo, CO. It is difficult to write something or speak to the words about someone so loved, and taken too soon. Neil made a lasting impression, one that will last a lifetime. From the time Neil made his first appearance, he filled our hearts with smiles and a richness that is indescribable. From the time he was born, Neil had a quiet resolve. All the other babies in the hospital cried and he was happy to peacefully, just taking it all in.

As a child, Neil loved to play with his cousins and friends. He had many birthday parties in the park, he loved spending time with his cousins playing in their fort at Aunt Charlotte’s house and the big log at Grandpa’s. As he got older, he loved to play his video games and carried that love and interest throughout life. He enjoyed the childhood trips to Blue Mesa, Water World and Elitch Gardens with his cousins, aunts, uncles and close friends. Neil enjoyed fishing and being outdoors, no one had a better chair at the lake. He had a kind heart and never had an agenda. He was a gentle soul that cared for everyone. He loved to read all kinds of books and he would play cards like Magic, The Gathering. He had many interests and collecting cards was one of them. He would try to find time to participate in card game conventions. He loved how creative the games were, and he enjoyed the intelligence of strategy. He appreciated the artists craftsmanship and collected signed memorabilia by his favorite creators. As a young man, Neil was a fiercely independent person who wanted to go his own way and do his own thing, but whatever his own thing was or whatever took his fancy, he always gave it his best shot. He would work hard and was willing and able to do the best he could in whatever challenge he faced.

He was his Dad’s painting partner and best friend. He learned how to paint at a very young age, and loved to work side by side with both of his parents.

Neil loved to cook. He began cooking eggs for his sister Becki at an early age. His grandfather Cecil bought Neil a hot pot to fry his sister’s eggs when he was little. He quit cooking eggs for Becki when she got sick of them and started to cook her pancakes instead. Neil had an appreciation for food and cooking. He would often experiment with new recipes and unique cooking utensils for his family and friends. He took pride in his creations.

His mother Wanda made Neil a dinosaur quilt when he was about 10 years old. Years later, Neil brought the quilt to Wanda to repair and mend. Wanda felt that the quilt was too worn to be fixed but Neil insisted, so Wanda fixed it. Now; that quilt so beloved by Neil, has a new home with Jacques family. Neil wasn't a materialistic person, he was more than contented with what he already had around him, his home, and his family.

Neil and his cousins and friends moved into Aunt Charlotte’s house in the Mesa and Neil learned how to be a carpenter under Dominic Vigil’s leadership. The guys loved living out there and going fishing at the Fire Lakes. We would listen to Sublime CDs for hours. Not really sure what went on out there in that house, but I think they all had a great time growing up together. Neil was available any time night or day to talk to his friends and family. He was always there to cheer you up when you needed it. He was quick to forgive and always compassionate. He was certainly a gentle and fun loving person

Neil’s integrity was never questioned. It was quite obvious to everyone who met him that he had something about him, it was steadfast and what he said was true. Neil could be very quiet and somber at times but he could always surprise you with a quick-witted comment that showed his intelligence and that he had been paying attention to the room and to the conversation that entire time. Neil was funny and his laugh was contagious, he was intelligent and he put family first.

Neil proudly received his GED, and began studying computer science at Pueblo Community College.

Neil’s aunt Rhonda loved being there for her nephew. Neil knew that his aunt Rhonda would help him if he ever needed anything. They went shopping together at Sam’s and Walmart, doctor appointments and medication pickups. Whatever was needed was done,and they would have a great time doing it. They would even squeeze in lunch during their outings.

He was Knox’s favorite Uncle. When Knox was born, he looked a lot like Neil. And you can see Neil in him every day.

Neil filled us with an incredible sense of joy and love. We are so grateful for the time we had with Neil. While our hearts are deeply grieved that we could not spend more time with Neil, we know that every moment spent with him, no matter how long or brief, is a gift.

Our Neil went to be with the Lord unexpectedly March 7, 2017. Neil was loved. Family and friends alike, we all have stories of Neil and cherish each one. In the end, he suffered in silence to spare other people pain.

He told his father that was living on borrowed time. He didn’t want to burden others. He will be missed every day.

Neil, we know you are listening. Thank you so much for the joyous time you had given us. We will always remember you. You hold a truly special place in our hearts. You have touched not only our lives, but the lives of so many others. We love you. May you be blessed in your journey.

There is a day when we will have more smiles about memories, than tears.

(Today is a day for both).