Keith H. Vrchota

Age 65, of Neshkoro, formerly Milwaukee, WI.

Born in Berwyn, IL passed away surrounded by his family on 7/17/24.

Keith was born to the late Henry B. Vrchota and Violet B. Vrchota (nee Nemec).

Keith was a kindhearted, soft spoken, giving individual who welcomed anyone who came in contact with him.  He loved food, music, sports and helping others.

Keith came from humble beginnings, as a young child growing up in Illinois, he was in the school band, played street hockey, youth baseball/football, and was featured in the local newspaper for capturing the trophy for most improved swimmer. Early on, Keith understood the value of money and began working as a dishwasher in the local nursing home.

Keith received his Bachelor of Arts in Business from Elmhurst College in 1980.

While at Elmhurst, he took a mandatory art class (charcoal drawing).  At the time it was looked upon as a waste; but it proved to be quite advantageous, Keith was a phenomenal artist.  He could imagine, draw or construct just about anything.

He was also a critical thinker, always trying to figure out how to repair or build something.  If he didn’t know on his own, he would borrow books from the library to guide his creations (this is before YouTube).  His biggest accomplishment was building a finished recreation room in his house.

Keith was somewhat of a shy guy, but he overcame that when he married Lynn Larson (nee Duvall) and was graced with his son, Andrew.  Keith married once again to Brandie Vrchota (nee Strozewski) and was blessed with another son, Preston.

In addition to being a devoted father to his sons, Keith was a member of softball leagues, bowling leagues, golf leagues.  He enjoyed cooking, camping, travel and nightly Jeopardy challenges with his wife.  While he enjoyed cooking, he liked eating, especially ice cream!  Dabbling in the stock market was also a hobby, he soon became quite savvy and prosperous from it.  Keith prided himself in a nice home, neat workbench and a meticulous yard.  Most of all, Keith enjoyed spending time fishing with his sons and nights talking at the fire pit.

Keith was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs and Chicago Blackhawks.

Elmhurst College degree guided Keith to pursue food service management positions beginning with SAGA Healthcare, later to St. Mary’s Hospital, Racine and St. Michael’s Hospital, Milwaukee.  Many people believed Keith was a trained chef; he wasn’t, but he was a master of many dishes including prime rib, steaks, omelets, crepes and cream sauces.

Although management positions took up the majority of Keith’s career, it wasn’t until his last job of 10 years with Milwaukee County Parks; which he retired from in 2022, brought him the most joy.  There was something special about watching daily sun rises, taking in the fantastic views of Lake Michigan and the many people he interacted with that made his job so enjoyable.

Retirement provided an opportunity to become a snowbird and spend partial winters south.  It was also a time to enjoy senior club billiards, golfing, unlimited fishing, concerts in the park along with food, fun and family.

Keith is survived by his wife Brandie J. Vrchota (nee Strozewski) of 27 years and his greatest accomplishments in life, his sons: Andrew M. Vrchota and Preston K. Vrchota.

He is also survived by brother-in-law, James W McGann, nieces: Kristen and Kerry, nephew: Jamie, cousins: Denise (the late Robert) Wiemer, Scott (Darlene) Vrchota, Dan (Lynette) Vrchota and Odie (Beth) Vrchota. Special Friends: Kathy & Joe Walter, Shari Rutlin, Lynn Selman and other Milwaukee and Neshkoro lake friends & neighbors, as well as the many friends he had the pleasure of making through his career and life.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents and sister Karen McGann.

Throughout his final months, Keith was cared for with dignity, grace and tenderness at home by his partner of 30 years, Brandie.

Much appreciation to the Aurora Hospice team for their compassionate care during Keith’s transition (Dylan, AmyJo, Ericka, Kaytie, Kelly, Lisa P, Lisa V, Tammy, Tina).

A very special thank You to our friend Peggy Katsma for medical support throughout.

A memorial visitation and celebration of life will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 3-5pm at Heritage Funeral Homes (9200 S 27 St, Oak Creek, WI).

Starting at 5pm there will be a video presentation, ice cream and a time to share stories and memories of Keith.

In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully welcomes memorial donations.