Keith was born in Yass, at Devonia Public Hospital, on September 2 1939, together with twin brother, Kevin. He was the fourth child of Ted and Una Kemp. He was part of a large and close knit family with brothers Jack, Kevin, Brian, Barry and Ross, and his sister, Dorothy and brother Smiley, who have predeceased him.
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Keith attended Yass Public School and progressed to Yass High. The highlight of his life was when he left school and commenced work at Doyle's Pharmacy. He gave 51 years of loyalty to the Doyle family. His first boss was Ernie Doyle, then Ernie's son Jerry, and finally his career with Peter Doyle. 51 years and three Doyle generations – what an achievement! Peter and Geraldine Doyle couldn't be here today, but they phoned from Washington to offer their condolences.
During this time, Keith was called up for National Service in the army in 1958, and serviced his three months at Wagga.
Keith married the love of his life, Jeanette Carey, in 1981, and together they had 24 years of married happiness. But tragedy struck and Jeanette passed away while on holidays in Queensland in 2005.
After Jeanette's death, Keith took up bowls – for both the game and the social activity. He played pennant bowls, and was one of the most popular members of the club. He was so full of fun, and his wit and short remarks were a real hit with the members. You couldn't get the last word in with Keith.
The Kemp family would like to thank the members of the Yass Bowling Club for their care and the friendship they showed to Keith after the passing of his wife - you became his life.
As well as bowls, Keith loved many sports including football, tennis, golf, in fact any sport that was on! And he loved to punt on all sports. Although not a big punter, he had an uncanny knack of punting on winners! One bet, just recently, comes to mind. He bet on a horse in Sydney, but on the TAB ticket, he marked the wrong location — marking Adelaide instead of Sydney. The horse won and paid $38 for a win. Not bad for a mistake!
Keith was greatly involved in the Yass Apex Club, and was made a life member in 1980 for his dedication and work for the club. He was also a very active member of the Yass Soldiers' Club Fishing Club, and participated in many fishing camps and tournaments.
Keith's beloved dog — Bonza, came into his life 14 or 15 years ago, and the family would like to thank Kevin and Margaret Baker for looking after him and offering him such a good home.
Special thoughts should go today to Keith's twin brother, Kevin. He was unable to be here today because he is in full time care at Toukley Aged Nursing Home, having lost both his legs to diabetes. The thoughts of all the family are especially with him.
Keith will be sadly missed by all his family, all his friends, and indeed all the Yass community.
- Contributed