John Albert Claude Keyes

John was preceded in death by his parents, Doris Keyes (née Swayne) and Claude Keyes, and his sister, Dorothy Duciame (née Keyes). He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Marilyn Keyes (née Fedor); his daughter, Kathryn Guthrie; his son, Kevin Keyes; his cherished grandchildren, Abigael and Liam Guthrie, and Carson and Isabella Keyes; as well as his son-in-law, Bart Guthrie, daughter-in-law, Michelle Keyes and sister Patricia Prower (née Keyes).

John’s life was a testament to hard work, integrity, and love. He rose from humble beginnings as a machinist and underground miner to become Chief Operating Officer & Chief Executive Officer in the global mining industry. He later served for 14 years on the Board of Directors for Kinross Gold. Along the way, he held leadership roles as Mine Manager at Mattabi, Geco and Hemlo Mines, in addition to his executive roles with Battle Mountain Gold Mines that left a lasting impact on colleagues and communities around the world.

Respected by peers, friends, and family alike, John was known not for his titles, but for his character. His kindness, honesty, fairness, and genuine interest in others defined him. He gave generously of his time, volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul and soup kitchens, as well as one of his great joys, mentoring countless individuals and supporting young minds through the robotics program at Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy. The many messages of gratitude and prayers received over the past year stand as a testament to the lives he touched.

From Magadan to Mauritania, John’s work took him across the globe. He collaborated with miners, Indigenous leaders, executives, and world figures, contributing thoughtfully to environmental, political, and social challenges. Yet no matter how far he traveled, his heart remained firmly rooted with his family.

John showed his family what love truly looks like through his 58-year marriage to Marilyn—a partnership defined by loyalty, resilience, and deep devotion. He was a steady and loving father, a proud father-in-law, and an extraordinary grandfather. Time spent with his grandchildren brought him immense joy—whether exploring museums and nature, playing chauffeur and chef or sharing nuggets of wisdom on a lunch date.

His adventurous spirit and athleticism were legendary. From his junior hockey days to his achievements in golf—including four hole-in-ones and shooting his age at 76—he lived life fully. Even later in life, he embraced adventure with enthusiasm: horseback riding, zip-lining, spelunking, and traveling the world with his family.

John created a lifetime of memories with those he loved—renewing wedding vows in an olive grove, making ravioli in Italy, hiking and rafting in Banff, walking the Great Wall of China, and snorkeling in the Galápagos with is grandchildren. In every place he went, he left people better than he found them.

Above all, John will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a deeply cherished grandfather. He gave his family unwavering support, stability, and love.

The world is a better place because of John’s generous and compassionate spirit. His legacy lives on through his family—in their values, their stories, and the love he instilled in each of them.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

His celebration of life will be held at the Palmer Course Clubhouse, Legacy Ballroom at 3:00pm, Friday, July 17th, 2026 with food, drink and reminiscing to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested any gifts to be donated to Legacy Preparatory Christian Academy’s Robotics Program.

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