Rupert Garrett Keais

There are not enough words to express what a wonderful man Rupe was in every way.  
 
Rupe was born in Detroit, May 29, 1933, the son of Rupert Charles Keais and Rose Ellen (Hayes) Keais and the oldest of four; siblings Mary Sue (Dave) Kuhlman, Julie (Jerry) Barry, and Chuck (Terry) Keais. He graduated from Catholic Central High School (Class of 1951) in Detroit and continued his education at Lawrence Technological University and the University of Detroit, earning his degree in Architecture. Soon after, he gained employment with General Motors. He was one of the chief designers at Argonaut, GM’s Architecture Division, and was responsible for the Fremont assembly plant in California, the Lordstown plant in Ohio, and the Saturn showrooms during his final tenure.
 
Rupe was a quiet man who, as an artist, expressed himself loudly through his paintings. His many colorful works of art revealed to us his passion for life. His love for his wife, Carol, who predeceased him in August 2017, was a true example of unconditional love.
 
He leaves behind two sons that dearly loved and respected him, Garrett (Kathy) and Greg (Sandy), and six much-loved grandchildren, Connor, Charlotte & Audrey, and Jack, Max & Natalie.  He leaves behind his in-laws that gained much from his mentorship in their lives, Tom Rochon, Kay (Lyman) Huffman, Larry (Elaine) Rochon, Bob (Cheryl) Rochon, Bill (Fara) Rochon, and Barbara (Jim) Bennage. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends.

Rupe loved the outdoors. For over 40 years, he never missed opening day of Trout Camp at his favorite spot on the Cedar River. Watching him father his two sons, Gregory and Garrett, and later his grandchildren, along the riverbanks and at the campsite, inspired all of us to be caring and nurturing fathers. His yearning to spend more time on the water resulted in many late summer trips with his pals, Paul, Ray, and Earl, fondly referred to as “The Boys”. 

A great man, an artist, true gentleman, loyal husband, wonderful father, good friend, quiet mentor, loving soul. He and his calm steadfastness will be greatly missed. His presence will be felt in our hearts always.

Visitation will be Friday, February 21 from 2:00pm to 7:00pm at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 13650 E. 15 Mile Rd, Sterling Heights. Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 22 at 11:00am at the funeral home.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Children’s Transplant Initiative (cti-tx.org) or Detroit Catholic Central High School (catholiccentral.net).  Checks can be mailed, with “In memory of Rupert Keais” in the memo line, to Children’s Transplant Initiative, 23718 Creekview, Spring, TX 77389 or to Detroit Catholic Central High School, c/o Office of Advancement, 27225 Wixom Rd, Novi, MI 48374.