Liz Karlgaard Keith

Liz Karlgaard Keith, 52, San Diego, California, formerly of Bismarck, died unexpectedly on July 6, 2010, at her home. A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life at 11 am Monday, July 12, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, with the Rev. Robert Lynne officiating. Liz was born April 1, 1958, in Bismarck, to Patricia and Richard Karlgaard. Liz graduated from Bismarck High School in 1976 and St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo in 1979. Liz spent over 30 years caring for other people through her nursing career. Liz was a beautiful, intelligent, generous, witty, caring soul who touched the lives of all who met her. She could light up a room with her humor and made everyone she knew feel important and loved. Liz had the gift of empathy, always looking out for the needs of others before looking out for the needs of herself. Her children, Tommy and Andrew, and grandchildren, Jonny, Gavin, Trevor and Savannah, were the light of her life, and she loved them more than life itself. She was so proud of the loving men her boys became. She met her husband Paul over ten years ago, and they have joyfully traveled the world together. She adored Paul, and often called him the kindest man she had ever met. Liz was an accomplished cook, delightfully filling the stomachs of family, friends and co-workers at every opportunity. She and Paul often entertained family and friends at their home with outstanding feasts. Growing up, Liz had lunch every day during her years at Hughes Junior High with her beloved Grandma Ann. They shared stories, creamed beef on toast, jokes, piano duets, card games and companionship. Liz always had a special place in her heart for the older generation, working with the elderly in her profession as well. Liz is survived by her sons Tommy Garrigan Ahlberg of Lake Okoboji, Iowa, and Andrew Ahlberg of Omaha, Nebraska; her grandson Jonny Wyatt Elkjer of Omaha, Nebraska; her loving husband of ten years, Paul Keith of San Diego; stepchildren Brandon Heather Keith, Aaron Keith and Stacy Cotton Rockwood all of San Diego; stepgrandchildren Savannah Keith, Trevor Keith, and Gavin Rockwood all of San Diego; her parents Pat and Dick Karlgaard of Bismarck; her brothers Rich Marji Karlgaard of Los Altos, California and Joe Jill Karlgaard of Oberlin, Ohio; her sister Mary Rick Burnton of Edina, MInnesota; her uncle Frank Hook of Hot Springs, South Dakota, her nieces and nephews, and many, many friends and relatives who loved her. We love you, Liz. You are always with us, forever in our hearts.

Liz Karlgaard Keith

April 1, 1958 - July 6, 2010