Michael Richard Keys

Michael Richard Keys, 81, of Boiling Springs, PA passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at his home. He was born July 28, 1942, in Harrisburg, PA the son of the late Elmer and Helen (Kirk) Keys.

Michael retired from teaching after working 36 years for the Northern York County School District. He began his career in 1965 at Northern High School as a Social Studies/Geography teacher. A few years later he found his niche as a 6th grade Geography teacher at Northern Middle School in Dillsburg. He was an advocate for his coworkers serving as Building Representative and President of the then Gifford Pinchot Education Association. Michael was a graduate of Elizabethtown College and obtained his Masters Degree at Shippensburg University. 

In his youth Michael was active in sports and became an avid tennis player throughout high school and college. As an adult he belonged to the Allenberry Club where over the years he served as Activities Member, Board Member, Board President, Tennis Pro and Tennis Coordinator. He also performed at the annual Christmas Show as Guest Greeter! Michael was a proud member of the "Berry Patch Gang".

Michael is survived by his wife of 28 years, Katherine A. Keys; one daughter, Jennifer L. Starner and her husband Christopher of Mechanicsburg; one son, Brian M. Keys and his wife Michelle of Myrtle Beach, SC; one step-son, James R. Berkoben and his wife Michelle of Mickleton, NJ; one step-daughter, Lisa K. Orr and her husband Jeffrey of Boiling Springs; one brother, Kerry S. Keys and his wife Sonata of Vilnius,Lithuania; four grandchildren: Erin N. Starner, Benjamin L. Starner, Nikolas S. Keys, Kylie M. Keys; four step-grandchildren: Allison M. Berkoben, Jack W. Berkoben, Katherine M. Brown, Mallory A. Brown; one niece, Kyva A. Keys and one nephew, Mykolas K. Keys.

The family will be having a private interment for Michael at the Rolling Green Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in his name please contact the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741,  800-227-2345 or (www.cancer.org)