Henry Walter Keib, Jr., passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Friday, March 13, 2026. He was 84 years old. A devoted pastor, teacher, sports fan, and family man, Walter guided those around him with humor, wisdom, and faith. Long before GPS existed, Walt had already mastered the art of navigation—with an atlas in hand and a full tank of gas he planned the family vacations with the same flair as Indiana Jones.
Walt was born November 30, 1941, to Henry Walter Sr. and Madeline (Giesman) Keib. He graduated from Crestline High School with the Class of 1959. Following high school, Walt pursued his calling to ministry by attending Moody Bible Institute and Prairie College, where he studied Christian Ministries. He later continued his education at Cedarville University, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Education, and went on to obtain his Master’s degree from Bowling Green State University.
Throughout his life, Walt faithfully served as a pastor, missionary, educator, coach, and athletic director, impacting countless lives through his leadership, mentorship, and devotion to his faith. Early in his ministry, he answered the call to missions and spent five years in Liberia, West Africa, serving as a teacher and sharing his faith with those he encountered.
Walt was a devoted sports fan and loved sports of all kinds. It was common to find some type of game happening in the backyard, where family and friends were always welcome to join. He never met a stranger and was known for his warm personality and playful sense of humor. Walt especially enjoyed joking with his family and keeping those around him laughing.
Family meant everything to Walt. One of his favorite traditions was planning family trips, often spending hours carefully mapping out every detail—from the routes they would take to exactly where they would stop for gas along the way. His love for adventure created many cherished memories for those who traveled with him. His favorite trips were the ones he and Mum would painstakingly plan for the grandchildren which included family devotions and worship. He never lost his passion for looking at life through their tender eyes.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Pearl Yvonne (Healey) Keib; children Tim and Joi (Reinking) Keib, Steve and Sarah (Obey) Keib, and Nathan and Carrie (Croft) Keib; grandchildren Austin, Brianna, Caleb, Naomi, Evan, Leah, Kathleen, Rebekah, Meghan, and Isaiah; as well as extended family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Henry Walter Sr. and Madeline (Giesman) Keib; sister Donna (Keib) Blevins; in-laws T.C. & Sarah Jane Healey; brother-in-law Jude and Catherine Healey & Dale and Elvy Healey.
Friends may call Friday, March 27, 2026 from 5–7 p.m. at Berean Baptist Church where calling hours will continue Saturday, March 28 from 10–11 a.m., with his funeral service beginning promptly at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Mansfield Memorial Park.
Walt will be remembered for his strong relationship with Christ, servant’s heart, love of family, and the joy he brought to everyone he met. Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve Walt’s family and encourages you to leave a fond memory or watch his tribute video at SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel
Website: www.Snyderfuneralhomes.com