Keith W.J. Haux, 58

Keith W.J. Haux, 58, passed away Sept. 15, 2014, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Keith was born April 8, 1956, in Kellogg, Idaho, to Eldon and Darlene Haux. He was the oldest of eight children. In 1974 he left school and joined the U.S. Marine Corps.

After leaving the Marines, Keith traveled a few years and then made his home in the Coeur d'Alene/Spokane area. He then decided he needed a change and relocated to Kennewick, Wash., where he resided while sharing his time in Coeur d'Alene caring for his father.

Keith worked most of his life as a carpenter and laborer until he became disabled. He loved building things and helping others with projects. He wanted to someday light up the world with his collection of lighters. If he found one that reminded him of you, he got it for you.

Keith had a love of the outdoors, sports, and history - but most of all, a love for his family, especially the little ones. His face and eyes would light up when they were around. He loved them and enjoyed playing with and tormenting them - and they so loved their Uncle Keith. Keith's favorite times were spent with his family and friends just hanging out enjoying time together. He had an unconditional love for everyone.

Keith was a gentle man with a kind and loving soul, and a heart as big as the moon. Anyone who knew him couldn't help but love him. We'll all miss that phone call ... "Hey!! Whatta ya doin'?" Just so he could hear your voice and chitchat for a while.

Keith was preceded in death by his mother, Darlene Haux, who he adored.

Keith is survived by his father, Eldon Haux of Coeur d'Alene; sisters Crystal McCollum (Jerry Lindenburger) of Kennewick, Wash., Paula Hille (Dale) of Quincy, Wash., and Kim Palmer (Bryan) of Post Falls, Idaho; brothers Rod, Russ Haux (May) of Post Falls, Dwane Haux of Spokane, Wash., and Fred Haux of Spirit Lake, Idaho; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends whom he loved and were all so dear to him.

A potluck memorial/open house will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, at the family home, 1802 Nettleton Gulch, in Coeur d'Alene. Come join us in celebrating his life and flight to freedom from the burdens that held him down. Fly sweet brother ... fly!! We will love and miss you forever.