In Memoriam: Keith Robert Jenkin

Keith Robert Jenkin, of Canyon Lake, passed away on Aug. 11, 2020 with his wife and family by his side.

Keith was born on April 21, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in a loving home with his parents and sister Joanne. They all spent summers at the family cottage in Portage Lake. Keith attended Redford  High School where he focused on one of his greatest passions in life, music. He played drums and timpani. He proceeded playing in college and the Beach Cities Symphony in Los Angeles.

Keith Robert Jenkin

Keith was married to his adoring wife, Lana, for 48 years. Their travel adventures carried them around the world to exotic places such as Australia, Costa Rica, Europe, Mexico and several places in between.

Keith was a great example to his five children. He taught them at an early age to take risks, be challenged in school and enjoy hobbies and work. Keith encouraged his kids to be adventure seekers, including riding motorcycles. When they went camping, his kids would take turns riding motorcycles and an ATV up and down the beach.

Keith’s 28-year career path as an aerospace engineer with TRW took several turns as he brainstormed from project to project. Keith worked on several aerospace projects, He worked on the inaugural space shuttle and worked on the launching and the concept of the shuttle launch of the Chandra astrophysics telescope. He was the lead systems engineer on DARS (Digital Audio Radio Satellites), which was used in production of XM Satellite Radio.

After retiring from TRW, Keith and Lana pursued their vision of building their dream home in Canyon Lake where Lana continues to reside.

Keith was an adventure junkie who loved all sports. He grew up waterskiing on Portage Lake. He jumped off cliffs to go hang gliding, a hobby Keith acquired after he designed and built his own hang glider. He rode motocross motorcycles with ease and perfection. He was an all-around athlete.

Keith and Lana both taught their children to love and be loved. Keith will be dearly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his wife Lana, his son Keith II and daughters Marlee, Devon, and Kimberley.

Keith was 77 at his passing. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gladys Jenkin and his son Todd Tillman.