Keith Yale

MISSOULA ~ Keith Yale died on January 16, 2024 due to complications of an injury sustained in early 2023. He was born in Billings, Montana, to Sylvia Ostrem and Lawrence Yale on March 13, 1939. Keith spent most of his early years with his mother and older sister Jeanne in Livingston, MT. He graduated from high school at Park High in Livingston. The University of MT (Go Griz) was his next stop. Here he obtained his bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. Furthering his education Keith received his PhD at the University of California Berkeley. Briefly he taught at Moorhouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. The call to return to Missoula was too strong so in 1967 he moved back home to Missoula. Here he became a proud professor of Mathematics at the University of Montana where he retired in 2000. He was extremely proud of his brick in the courtyard at the University. 

Keith married Martha Lou Ward in Missoula, MT on December 31,^, 1969. Together they climbed mountains and spent time on the water. She was the love of his life and constant companion in the outdoors. Martha preceded Keith in death in 2014. 

Keith climbed many mountains and toured many countries throughout his life but sailing on Flathead Lake in his boat with his many crew members was the best. Woodworking was also a passion of Keith’s. He was always on the lookout for another piece of wood for some project he may or may not do. Working at the Home ReSource Center in Missoula was also a favorite past time. Keith was a wealth of information on how to fix something and was always happy to help. Keith did not just have friends - a friendship to him was a lifelong commitment and he savored each and every one of them. 

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, wife Martha, sister B. Jeanne Fleming, brother-in-law Jim Fleming, two nephews Don and Ken Fleming, and close friend Charlotte Kasl. He is survived by many cousins, nephews, and nieces spread throughout the country. Because Keith was a believer in his fellow man or woman, in lieu of flowers or gifts, please feel free to make a donation in his memory to the place of your choice.  A celebration of Keith’s life will be held at a later time this spring.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory in Missoula.