Keith Albright, 50
Keith Albright, 50, a local Kalispell businessman, passed away suddenly Sunday, April 12, 2009, at his home in Kalispell, from cardiac arrhythmia. He was born in Great Falls on Dec. 16, 1958, to Herb and Bette (Barker) Albright.
Keith received his education in Kalispell schools, graduating from Flathead High School in 1977. After attending the University of Montana for a short time, he went on to receive a degree in economics from Carroll College in 1982.
Keith married Marcie Rosenow of Plains in 1984, and to this union was born two children, Beau and Taylor. He joined the Valley Glass firm with his father, and they expanded the business to include stores in Polson, Helena and Whitefish. Upon his father's retirement in 1987, Keith bought the business and later included Larry Iverson and Tony Camilleri. He was a born leader.
As a former football player for Flathead High School, the University of Montana and Carroll College, Keith was a committed fan and longtime supporter. At every home game you could find him tailgating in Missoula with his friends and family while cheering on the Griz.
As a very involved member of the community, he was a board member for Stillwater Estates and active in the Kalispell Homebuilders Association. He volunteered in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization and coached Little Guy Football, as well as minor and Major League baseball teams.
Keith especially enjoyed his summers boating on Flathead Lake, his time at the cabin on Thompson River, and entertaining his friends. He was a man quick to offer a hand and mentor those around him. He loved to entertain, whether on his boat or in his home, and frequently cooked for his friends and family, loving every minute of it. Because of his gregarious nature, it was a guarantee he would be at all social events. He lived life to the fullest. One of his favorite things was to emcee at the Flathead Class of '77 reunions and roasting all of his friends.
Keith was a passionate supporter of his children, encouraging them to live honest lives and give their all in both the sports arena and the classroom, as well as in all their endeavors.
Keith was preceded in death by his father-in-law, David Rosenow.
He is survived by his wife, Marcie; a son, Beau; and a daughter, Taylor; his parents, Herb and Bette Albright; a brother, Neil; and sister, Cindy Jones, and husband, Nick, all of Kalispell; aunt, Claudia, and George Perusich, of Butte; mother-in-law, Katie Lou Rosenow, of Plains; brother-in-law, Jason Rosenow, of Arizona; sisters-in-law, Betsy Burman of Sacramento, Calif.; and Jodie Chacon of Houston; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Keith will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 20, at the Christian Center, with Pastor Dick Bishop officiating. There will be no visitation. Burial will be in the C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery.
The family suggests memorial gifts be given to the KidSports, P.O. Box 1205, Kalispell, MT 59903; or the GSA-Grizzly Scholarship Association, UM-Foundation, P.O. Box 7159, Missoula, MT 59807.
Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Keith's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Keith's guest book.