Keith Myron Rector, 81, of Waubun, MN, formerly of Ada, MN, died suddenly on Thursday, July 30, 2020, as a passenger involved in a tragic car accident. We take comfort knowing that he did not suffer.

Keith was born on October 10, 1938 in Ada, MN, the third of four children born to Charles and Myrtle (Gilge) Rector. He graduated from Ada High School in 1957. While in high school he learned the painting trade, and eventually opened his own business, Ada Decorating. Keith served Ada and its surrounding communities for over five decades, until he retired in 2010.

Keith was the faithful husband to his loving wife, Mary Ellen (Gift) Rector, who he married on February 19, 1962 in Hendrum, MN. They built their home in Ada, where they established roots and raised their two boys, Ned and Charlie. In 1994, they decided to move permanently to their lake home, where they enjoyed entertaining family and friends throughout the summers, creating many fond memories for all. Keith and Mary Ellen enjoyed yearly RV travels throughout the US, including numerous trips to Alaska, and to southern states where they could escape the long Minnesota winters. In later years, as Mary Ellen's health declined, Keith took his marriage vows to heart and cared for her at home until her death in 2017.

Keith balanced his incredible Minnesota work ethic with his love of hunting and fishing. Of his many outdoor adventures, his likely favorite was fall deer hunting. He also hunted moose, caribou, elk, mule deer, and antelope wherever they roamed. An avid fisherman, Mary Ellen and the boys often joined him on fishing excursions. Keith especially enjoyed fishing Lake of the Woods, Buffalo Bay.

Keith is survived by two children and their spouses, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren: Ned (Shelley) Rector, Reiles Acres, ND and Charles (Mindi) Rector, Chanhassen, MN; grandchildren: Amanda (Matt) Remund, Tessa (Joel) Slinden, Evan, Eden and Nathan; great grandchildren: Addison, Kaden and Liam; brother, David (Faye) Rector of Pembina, ND; sister, Sharon (Mike) Skalsky of Stockton, CA; sister-in-law, Maxine Gift of Princeton, MN; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Charles and Myrtle Rector; wife, Mary Ellen; brother-in-law, Fletcher Gift; and brother and sister-in-law, Dwight and Simone Rector.

To be his family has been the greatest blessing. He modeled for us a legacy of love and commitment to family, and we will miss him so.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2020 at 4:00 pm at the Ada Cemetery, Ada, MN. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to bring a chair. Following all safety protocols due to COVID-19 restrictions, social distancing will be practiced, and all must wear a mask to participate.