September 12, 1946 – June 7, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Allan McRae on June 7, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He died peacefully with loved ones by his side.

Keith was born on September 12, 1946, to Aleta and John McRae.

He grew up in Fort Frances, Ontario, alongside his younger brother, Derry McRae. He spent his life in the Rainy River District, where he became a respected educator and a quiet but steady presence in the lives of many students and colleagues.

Keith dedicated more than 30 years to teaching with the Northwest Catholic School Board. Throughout his career, he taught a variety of grades. He took pride in his work and approached teaching with patience, kindness, and a genuine desire to help young people succeed.

Keith was married to Mariette McRae (Gagné) for nearly forty years. While their paths changed over the years, they remained close and continued to share a bond built on decades of family, friendship and mutual respect.

He was a devoted father to his three children: Brad McRae and his partner Dawn of Stittsville, Ontario, along with their son, Dylan (17); Neil McRae of Cochrane, Alberta, and his children, Sawyer (13) and Summer (10); and Christy Barnard and her husband, Denis, along with their children, Griffin (21), Hadley (14), and Harrison (13).

Keith will also be remembered by his longtime friend Gerry Parent, with whom he shared many years of teaching, golfing, and friendship. He enjoyed countless rounds of golf with his regular foursome and treasured the camaraderie those friendships brought to his life.

A man of few words, Keith was thoughtful, measured, and quietly wise. He was known for his positive outlook and for treating everyone with kindness and respect. He rarely spoke ill of anyone and was the kind of person whose nature left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

In his leisure time, Keith enjoyed watching football and faithfully cheering on his beloved Minnesota Vikings. He also loved playing Bridge with his good friend, Bob Barron, and many local Bridge fanatics. Most of all, he loved his family and took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

Keith lived a good life—one defined by dedication, humility, kindness, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

It’s been a fine life, Dad. You will be missed.