Erhard Keck

Obituary

Erhard Keck – loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather – passed away on November 7, 2025, at the Boundary Trails Health Centre.

Born January 11, 1940, in Dubrovytsya, Ukraine, Erhard was one of five sons of Waldemar and Tamara Keck. His early life was marked by wartime upheaval, political instability, and displacement. During World War II, his family, of German heritage, faced threats and upheaval that forced them to leave Ukraine in 1943. Erhard’s family traveled with retreating German forces, enduring long journeys in wagons and trains, witnessing hardship, loss, and uncertainty along the way. His younger brother Irvin passed away at just three years old during this period.

By 1948, Erhard and his family immigrated to Canada, settling in Morris, Manitoba. With limited English and starting over in a new country, Erhard demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. At 8 years old, he began grade one to learn English, and his quick grasp of the language allowed him to skip to the third grade the following year. Despite early challenges, he embraced his new community and developed a strong sense of faith and belonging.

Erhard’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. In November 1954, he committed his life to Jesus, and in 1962, he was baptized. He was an active participant in Emmanuel Baptist Church, finding joy in serving, learning, and fellowshipping with his church family. His faith guided his life decisions and shaped the way he loved and cared for others.

In 1963, Erhard purchased and operated the Morris Paint & Body Shop, building a successful business that he ran until his retirement in 2000. Even after selling the shop to his son Ronald, he continued helping with odd jobs and mentoring, demonstrating his dedication and strong work ethic. Beyond his business, he served his community as an ambulance driver and caretaker at Emmanuel Baptist Church, contributing countless hours to help others. Even in retirement, Erhard never stopped working with his hands or helping where he could – even washing Skip-Bo cards so they would shuffle just right. He approached every task with the same care and quiet pride.

Erhard married Eleanor (Ellie) Edel on October 3, 1964, and together they built a loving lifelong home. Family was at the heart of Erhard’s life. He is survived by his wife Ellie; his children Pamela (Howard), Ronald (Rhoda), and Steve (Laurie); his brothers Willie (Daphne) and Fred (Susan); his cherished grandchildren Carson (Cassandra), David, Tristan (Sydney), Brendan (Jaelyn), Daniel (Damaris), Joshua, Jordan (Ashlyn), Justin (Morgan), and Rylan (Leah); and his great-grandchildren Lennon and Beckham. He was preceded in death by his parents, Waldemar and Tamara Keck, and two of his brothers, Reiny and Irvin.

Throughout his life, Erhard exemplified resilience, dedication, and kindness. He treasured every moment with family, from watching hockey games to playing games to celebrating milestones, and instilled values of faith and integrity in those around him.

Erhard will be remembered as a man who loved the Lord and loved others, touching the lives of many with his kindness.

A service in celebration of Erhard’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 12, at 1:30 PM at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Morris, Manitoba.

Public viewing will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 12:00pm to 6:00pm at Morris funeral Home.

The internment will take place prior to the funeral service at 11:00 AM at the Morris Cemetery. The family welcomes all who wish to attend.

Arrangements Entrusted to: Morris Funeral Home (204-746-2451)