Posted on 09/18/2018
James Stanton Keck, known to friends as "Stan," passed away on September 3, 2018, at the age of 85 years. A native of North Pomfret, Vermont, Stan grew up on a horse farm with his parents. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland in 1954. Stan had a long career with the United States Air Force and retired as a colonel. Stan had a passion for adventure. The Circe, a wooden racing yacht from the 1930's, was Stan's pride and joy. Stan restored the Circe and she joined the Seattle Yacht Club Opening Day Ceremonies since the completion of her restoration in 1992. Since then she has won the classic boat prize numerous times. Stan enjoyed sharing the love of sailing with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Delene, stepson Scott Keck, son-in-law Michael Spitzer, Dr. Rand Ritchie, Dr. Hal Ritchie (Mary) and stepdaughter Shawna Deck (Joe), eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and cousins A. David Moore, John Moore and Emily Grube. He was preceded in death by his parents James Stanton and Ruth Keck, stepdaughter Rosalind, daughter-in-law Katherine, granddaughter Grace and great-granddaughter Charlotte. A Celebration of Stan's life will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, September 15, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 959 Valley Road, Arroyo Grande, CA. Memorial donations in memory of Stan can be made to St. John's Lutheran Church.
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