Donald F. Keiter, Sr.

Donald F. Keiter, Sr.

Age: 85 of Philadelphia

Passed away on March 13, 2022. Donald was the loving husband of 62 years to Marie Keiter (nee Falcone); cherished father of Donald (Donna) Keiter, Donna (Jay) McGee and Debbie Cifelli; adoring Poppy of Anthony (Caitlin) Keiter, Shannon (Matthew) Keiter, Jade McGee, Jenna McGee, Trevor McGee and Jake Cifelli; great- grandfather to Scarlett Keiter.

Don was born and raised in South Philadelphia with his four brothers and three sisters. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1953-1958. After serving his military duties, he returned home and met the love of his life, Marie at a beef and beer night and they got married on September 17, 1960. Their love story lasted for 62 years and blessed them with three children, 6 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and another on the way.

Don was a proud teamster of local 115 for many years and his final job was at Heraeus Electro-nite, where he worked closely with his daughter Donna. Whenever she needed help, he was always there. After his retirement, to fill his time, him and his wife Marie worked as lunch monitors at St. Ephrem School to be close to their grandchildren. 

Don loved spending time at the shore, whether it was sitting on the beach, walking the boardwalk, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the waves. When he wasn’t at the shore, Don loved spending time with his wife at the casino. Don was an avid Philadelpha Eagles fan, you could find him yelling at his tv screen every football Sunday. He also enjoyed growing fruits and vegetables in his small garden and couldn’t wait until visitors stopped by to send them home with bags full of tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Don’t let his green thumb fool you, despite his diabetes Don would never turn down his sweets.

Don had many hobbies, but his favorite by far was going to watch his grandchildren in their sporting events. You could always count on Poppy to be there, rain or shine, with his folding chair and his cup of coffee.  He wasn’t quiet by any means, he made sure to let you and the officials know that he was in attendance. It was no secret that Don’s grandchildren were his pride and joy. The love that he showed them throughout his life was truly amazing and he always had the biggest smile on his face whenever any of his grandchildren walked into a room.

Our dad was many things to many people but to us he was our hero and biggest fan. Dad, we will miss you always. We love you and you will forever be in our hearts.

Services will be held privately by the family. In lieu of flowers charitable donations in Donald’s name may be made to Autism Speaks.