In Loving Memory of

Edith Elizabeth McKeen

(Maiden: Lee)
of Edmonton

A remarkable woman, known as Mrs. McKeen to hundreds of her former students, died in her sleep on June 7, at the age of 91. Edith will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her family, friends and the many students she taught over a 38-year teaching career. She was born in Winnipeg, raised in Elgin, Manitoba and began teaching at age 16, in a one-room prairie schoolhouse.

She married Charles McKeen in 1955 in Flin Flon, Manitoba where sons Rod and Scott were born. The family moved in 1967 to Edmonton, where she continued teaching, as well as taking evening and summer classes at the U of A to earn her Bachelor of Education degree.

She was predeceased by her parents Anne and Herbert Lee; as well as siblings, Jack, Marge and Shirley. Edith is survived by sons, Rod (Bev) and Scott; grandchildren, Ben, Kellan, Jonah, Jenny, Molly and Matt; great-grandson, Alex; brother Rod (Ruby) and sister, Linda (Bob).

Her husband Charles - she called him Chip; sometimes CHIP! - who was the love of her life, died in 2007.

Edith and Chip were devoted fans of the Oilers and Eskimos. She curled in winters, golfed with Chip in summers and made outstanding apple pies, chocolate chip cookies and a heavenly angel-food cake with chocolate whipped cream topping. She loved taking her sons and then her grandkids on outings to the beach, the playground, or to live theater. She enjoyed attending church and volunteered in various capacities for the church.

Edith was an unsung leader. She routinely canvassed for charities, sat on the board of the George Spady Centre and, along with Chip, delivered for Meals on Wheels. All of us are so proud of her life of service to students, to family and to vulnerable people.

We want to thank the passionate caregivers at Home Instead, especially Abby, who was there from the start, but also Rhonda and others, who helped make mom's final years more comfortable and enjoyable. We also want to thank the staff at Laurier House Lynnwood for their grace and care of mom during her final days, especially during the stress of Covid-19.

A memorial service is postponed for now to better ensure everyone’s safety in this time of pandemic.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Edith’s name to the George Spady Centre Society, 10015 – 105A Avenue, Edmonton, T5H 0M5.