Keith Martin Gidner
Keith Martin Gidner, 97, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Sunday, July 9, 2023, in Eaton Rapids. Keith was born June 3, 1926, in Charlotte, the son of Leon and Lulu (Srickland) Gidner. He lost his mother at age 14, and shortly after went to work on the neighbor’s farm. This instilled in Keith a strong work ethic from an early age. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1945. Keith married the love of his life, Ellen Anne Hartley on October 28, 1951, in Holt, and the two started their own family farm. Farming would play a central role in their life together, and Keith will forever be remembered as a humble farmer with a kind heart. He was extremely sociable, and his sharp wit endeared him to all he came across. In his later years, he and Ellen spent winters in Donna, TX, and enjoyed travel, and snowmobiling. He especially loved time spent with his grandchildren, often taking special trips together with them.
Keith is survived by his three children; David Gidner of Holt, Cindy (Gary) Sabo of Coopersville, MI, and Brian Gidner of Mancelona, MI; seven grandchildren, Jessica Gidner, Lindsay Gidner, Julia (Tyler) Maraskine, Jill (Blake) Hudak, Josie Sabo, Cody (Stephanie) Gidner, and Connor Gidner; seven great-grandchildren, Kayne, Furious, Xzayvier, Isabel, Justus, Sadie, and Owen; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Ellen Gidner; and his siblings, Eleanora Jarrett and Robert Gidner.
Friends are encouraged to support Keith’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, July 13, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Friday, July 14, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home Charlotte with Pastor Jack Conklin officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Keith’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.