Keith Douglas Wright

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband and father Keith Wright, who departed this life on October 13, 2025 at the age of 59. Keith was a cherished member of our family, a loyal friend, and a valued member of the community. Keith touched the lives of many through kindness, generosity, and a gentle spirit.

Keith was born on April 8, 1966 in Fontana, California to Thomas and Jean Wright becoming the youngest of four children. The family moved to University Place, Washington the following year where Keith spent the remainder of his childhood.

Throughout his youth Keith was actively involved in Scouting, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Keith attended Curtis High School where he developed a love for water sports, playing water polo and competing at the state level with the swim team. It was in high school that he also developed a passion for acting and was part of several productions.

Keith went on to attend Washington State University where he majored in Theater Arts. Here he met his future wife Marlene during the first semester of his freshman year. Keith and Marlene’s relationship blossomed on campus, leading to a lifelong partnership. Keith remained a diehard Cougar fan for the remainder of his life.

After earning his degree from WSU, Keith began his service as a volunteer firefighter at Station 6-1 in Parkland, Washington, marking the start of a distinguished 32-year career in fire service. During this time Keith worked his way through the ranks, eventually achieving the position of Fire Chief.

Recognizing the value of continued professional development, Keith pursued further education in his field. In addition to his BA from WSU, he held an associate’s degree in Fire Command and Administration from Bellevue Community College, a bachelor's degree in Fire Service Administration from Eastern Oregon University and completed the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy.

Keith’s career highlights include responding to the Oklahoma City bombing and World Trade Center attack with the Puget Sound Urban Search and Rescue Team. He received multiple awards, including Fire Chiefs Award, Firefighter of the Year (twice), Instructor of the Year, Employee of the Year, Best Incident Commander (twice) at the TERC Auto Extrication Competition. IN 2015, Keith played an integral part in the passing of legislation that brought millions of dollars to fire departments in the state of Washington. But most importantly, he valued his time mentoring fellow firefighters and officers.

Outside of work, Keith was a devoted father. He served as an Assistant Scout Master for his sons’ scout troop accompanying them on many outings including a 50 mile kayak trip and a once in a lifetime hiking trip to Camp Philmont in New Mexico. Keith also enjoyed playing golf with family and friends and walking the dog around Bradley Lake. He was an active member at Mountain View Lutheran Church, participant in the Puyallup Rotary club, and supported the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by participating in the Firefighter Stair Climb over 20 times.

Keith is survived by his wife Marlene; children Connor (Melissa), Jarod, Sarah; Mother Jean; Siblings Laurel (Gregg), Steven (Katherine), Linda (John) and numerous nieces and nephews. Keith will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will live on in the hearts of friends and family.

A memorial service will be held on November 1 at 3:00pm at Mountain View Lutheran Church in Edgewood. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Keith’s honor.