SEARSMONT — Keith D. Grant, 89, of Searsmont died unexpectedly at Pen Bay Medical Center on January 16, 2025 after a brief hospital stay. Keith was born on July 3, 1935 in Belfast, Maine to Margie (Lowe) and Clarence Grant.

Keith attended Belfast schools and graduated from Crosby High School class of 1953. He worked for many years as a shoe cutter at factories in the Belfast and Bangor areas.

He was a Master Sgt in the Maine Army National Guard and retired in 1993 after 30 years of service. He remained connected with his many guard friends and received supplemental health care through the Togus VA. He was proud of his military commitment and shared many stories of his time in service.

Keith was a dedicated member of multiple Masonic Lodges in the area. He was recently presented with his 50 year medal. When he was still able he would assist with many projects put on by the lodges, particularly the public suppers in Northport.

Keith was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing with many family and friends and made many trips into the woods looking for the best hunting spots and fishing secluded lakes, ponds, streams and brooks all over our state. He was able to harvest a deer in 2021 with the help of his daughter and son-in-law. He was very pleased with himself and proclaimed “I’ve still got it!” He loved his camping trips and the chance to be with family and friends. He enjoyed gardening and harvesting his fruits and vegetables. He so enjoyed watching the birds at his feeders and even the squirrels that came to raid them. It meant a lot to him to pass on his love of the outdoors to his daughter, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He looked forward to visiting with family and friends and always welcomed them with a smile and a twinkle in his eyes. He welcomed all 4 legged visitors especially his great grand dog Rex who came weekly with his granddaughter Kelsey and great-granddaughter Kinslee to feed the birds, get some treats and do his tricks. He enjoyed reading, especially stories about Maine and always welcomed an addition to his vast library of Maine lore.

Keith is survived by his daughter Lisa Stanford and son-in-law Ben Stanford; his grandchildren Jared DeSimio (Hannah Curtis), and Kelsey Payson (Joshua); great-grandchildren Olive and Aster DeSimio and Kinslee Payson; step-grandson Chris Stanford (Jen) and step-great-grandchildren Ryan, Will and Emily Stanford; special cousins, like siblings, Ricky Nickerson (Judy) and Connie Grendell (Ralph); his friend Bob McKenna who helped him in so many ways; his friend Margaret Knowles who always made him smile, he looked forward to their daily calls; his at-home caregivers Bonnie and Cassie and many other staff at Assistance Plus.

Keith was predeceased by his half-brother Eugene Grant and his wife Beverly (Patterson), they were a vibrant couple that shared many special memories.

Health issues slowed him down but he never gave up, he always said he wanted to live to be 100. He wanted to be thorough in figuring out his health challenges and the family thanks his ‘team’ of doctors, assistants, nurses, and support staff for their attention, and assistance in working through some challenging times.

There will be a Celebration of Life in the Spring, more details to come.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ripostafh.com