Keith Douglas Zerkle, 73, of Urbana passed away January 09, 2024, in his family farm home.

Keith was born August 1, 1950, in Springfield to the late Donald E. and Ruth E. Zerkle. Keith was a 1968 graduate of West Liberty Salem High School.

Keith is survived by his sisters, Faye (Duane) VanBuskirk of Rushsylvania, Joan Zerkle of Urbana, Nan (John) Mason of Urbana. Nephews, Luke (Candy) Myers of Urbana, Tyler (Bexley) Myers of Springfield, and Cody (Bailey) VanBuskirk of Bellefontaine, Ohio. Great nieces, Harper Myers, Nora Myers and Lyra VanBuskirk. Great Nephews, Rowan Myers and Atlas VanBuskirk. One Aunt, Betty Zerkle of Urbana and many cousins.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents.

As a lifelong dairy farmer (almost 50 Years), with his dad their cattle were nationally recognized with many awards.

Also, as an author, he had 2 published books along with having written many limericks and poems.

As a history buff, he always had some story or tidbit of past events on any given day to share and quiz us on.

Keith loved his pet raccoon ‘Festus’ and his cats ‘Jenny’ and ‘Jessie’.

Keith cared for his family and fought to the end.

The family would like to thank Ohio’s Community Mercy Hospice.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, January 19, in the Vernon Funeral Home, Urbana, Ohio.

A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. with Janie Brewer officiating.

Interment will follow in Oakdale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: Champaign County Historical Society or Ohio’s Community Mercy Hospice.