Keith William Kladnik passed away on August 6, 2026 following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Born on October 7, 1952 in Ellensburg, Washington, Keith's life was one filled with love, laughter, hard work, and dedication to his family and community.

Keith was the son of Ray and Katie Kladnik, who preceded him in death, along with his daughter, Rebecca Kladnik. He is survived by his devoted wife, Julia Sanderson Kladnik, with whom he shared 20 years of love and companionship. Keith leaves behind a legacy through his children, Ivre Kladnik, Vanessa Stone, Caleb Arnett, and Jesse Kitzman, his adored grandchildren, Frances Callahan, Mariah Stone, Alaina Travers, Beau Stone, Rio Kitzman, Veda Kitzman, and Kai Kitzman and his great grandchildren Izabella Constancio and Paisley Travers. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Ken Kladnik and Kathy Schellhas and extended family.

Keith graduated from Cle Elum High School in 1970 and pursued higher education at Central Washington University, earning Bachelor's Degrees in Sociology and Special Education. His dedication to service was evident in his military tenure when he was drafted into the US Army, serving honorably while stationed in Northern California.

Professionally, Keith was a passionate advocate for children, working tirelessly for 35+ years as a case manager and investigator for the Department of Child Protective Services. His career was marked by compassion and empathy, qualities that defined his approach to helping others.

Keith's personal interests were as diverse as they were fulfilling. He was an avid Harley rider, loved camping and fishing, mountain rides looking for the perfect fire wood with his beloved dog Maggie and foraging for mushrooms and huckleberries. He loved sports and took great pride in officiating high school basketball and baseball for 30+ years. Keith was a proud Eagle Scout and was also a member of several organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the American Legion, and the Slovenian Heritage Society.

At the heart of Keith's life was his love for storytelling and reminiscing about the good old days, always sharing his great sense of humor and infectious laughter with those around him. His moral compass was unwavering, and he believed deeply in doing right by others.

The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in honoring his remarkable life.

Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Tonasket Community Cultural Center 411 Western Ave. Tonasket, WA

As Keith loved to say, "Ride On…"