Earlene A Keeton

Earlene Ann “Earlena” Keeton (nee Gordon), of Fruitland, Idaho, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, in Fruitland. Born on June 3, 1950, in Ontario, Oregon, Earlene spent her life rooted in the Treasure Valley community she loved so dearly.  

 

Earlene attended Fruitland schools from elementary through high school, forming lifelong connections and laying the foundation for a life filled with creativity, dedication, and deep family ties. Her professional journey began at KSRV, where she worked as a commercial writer and occasionally stepped behind the microphone as a DJ – bringing her vibrant personality to the airwaves. She later joined SRV Music, where she played a key role in distributing music throughout the Treasure Valley.  

 

Later in life, Earlene brought her artistic flair to Walmart as the head cake decorator. Her beautifully crafted cakes became staples at countless family celebrations across the region – Many will fondly remember birthdays marked by her signature designs and personal touches. 

 

A true artisan at heart, Earlene was an avid woodworker and a self-proclaimed crafting guru. Her hands were rarely still; whether shaping wood or creating intricate crafts, she poured love into everything she made. Her creativity was matched only by her generosity and warmth.  

 

Above all else, Earlene lived and breathed for her family. She is survived by her devoted husband Darrell Keeton; their children Pete (Heidi) Keeton and Angie (Steve) Budiselic; grandchildren Jesse Keeton, Derek (Hope) Keeton, K’la (Seth) Hicks, Lacy (Austyn) Grothaus, Jared (Brylee) Keeton, Tugger Roberts, Kylie Roberts: great-grandchildren Jojo Keeton, Eli Hicks, Kinsi Hicks, Palmer Grothaus, Arlie Grothaus; and Korace “Bubs” Bonner. She also leaves behind Jeff Gordon and Family.  

 

She was preceded in death by her parents Earl and Flona Gordon; parents-in-law George and Ruth Schreiner; granddaughter-in-law Hope Keeton; and brother Larry Gordon.

 

Earlene’s love extended beyond bloodlines – She embraced many as part of her chosen family. Special thanks go to Lori K., Kelly W., Tracy J., and Gail for their enduring love and support over the years.