Keith Gaboury

Keith was born July 13, 1932 in Ishpeming to Ernest D. and Geraldine (Williams) Gaboury. He graduated from Ishpeming High School, Class of 1950 and earned his bachelor’s degree in Education from Northern Michigan University. Keith went on to marry the love of his life, Joanne Belstrom, in 1954. His first teaching position was in Dollar Bay, Michigan, as a Social Studies and History teacher.

Keith felt it hypocritical to teach about civic duties while being exempt from the draft, so in the midst of the Korean conflict, Keith voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving for two years. Following his honorable discharge in 1957, Keith returned to Ishpeming to continue his education. Keith received his master’s degree and began teaching in Ishpeming, where he became the first Guidance Counselor at Ishpeming High School. Keith put his heart into his job and helped many, many students to find their path in life.

Keith would continuously include his “former students” in his daily prayers and wholeheartedly cared for every single one.

Keith and his (late) wife, Joanne, both enjoyed singing and sang in various singing groups together, including the Choraleers and Allegro. Keith loved guns, he loved hunting, and he loved spending time at the Gaboury deer camp with friends and family.

Keith is survived by 2 children: Geraldine Krigbaum of Green Bay, WI; Leonard (Dianne) Gaboury of Ishpeming; 2 brothers, Roger Gaboury of Ishpeming and Allan (Maria) Gaboury of Sun Prairie, WI; 3 grandchildren, Ryan Gaboury, Savannah Krigbaum; and Jocelyn (fiance) Evan Mayer) Gaboury; a great grandson, Carter Lance, along with several nieces and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joanne; his in-laws, Leonard and Ann Belstrom; sister-in-law, Ann Gaboury; sister-in-law, Barbara Oja; and her husband, Stewart Oja.

Keith’s family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming, where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 1:00 PM with Fr. Ryan Ford officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.

Memorials may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Keith’s memory.

Keith’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.