Col. Keith E. Willey, 81, of Herald died Sept. 27, 2015 after a three-month battle with cancer. He was born Sept. 7, 1934 in Cherokee, Iowa.
Col. Willey had resided in Sacramento County 43 years, 26 of which were spent in Herald. He served as a full-time military officer in the California National Guard , retiring in August 1992. He began as a national guardsman in 1953 and also served as air defense commander and comptroller with the California State Military Department. He was a horseman and worked as a driver, trainer, breeder and owner of standard bred race horses. He was a self-taught computer guru, photographer, pilot, music lover of old country music, a Mr. Fix-it, and cowboy at heart, who liked challenges.
Surviving him are his wife Deborah Willey and son Kenneth Willey, plus numerous dogs, cats and horses.
A military service will be held at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon.
Ben Salas Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Robin Clements-CHHA