Edith Mae McKee

Edith McKee (Grandma), the ROCK of our Family, passed away May30, 2020. A perfect example of the Greatest Generation, she even wrote her own obituary fourteen years ago. Some of the loved ones she mentions have preceded her.

“Edith (Whitaker) McKee

Edith Whitaker was born 93 years ago to Carl and Dorothy Whitaker on October 25, 1926. Her childhood was spent in a small farming community of Chetek Wisconsin. She attended and graduated from the Univ of Wisconsin at River Falls. She taught school for several years and then took a chance on teaching in Hawaii. Her assignment was at an elementary school on Scofield Barracks, away from Honolulu in the mountains. While she was teaching she had the privilege of celebrating statehood with everyone. It was a glorious experience. She met her Husband, James McKee, who was serving a tour there. They married and went back “stateside” to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX and after a year in Vietnam, of to Fort Hood, Killeen, TX It was time for retirement and Austin was chosen because of the University and it was a lovely spot. She leaves her husband, James, children Elizabeth Holt and husband Dr. Richard Holt, James McKee of Austin and Bill McKee of San Antonio. Three grandchildren, Chris and Marcie Holt, Sarah Holt and Michael Holt, one great-grandchild, Madelyn Grace Holt. A brother and two sisters survive, John Whitaker of Plymouth, Mass., Carol Jacobson of Duxbury, Mass., and Marian Rice and husband John Rice of Katoomba, Australia. Many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and a small circle of dear friends.”

Always pleasant and sweet, never a complainer, she was strong, unshakeable, a “Steady Freddie”. She could be a real corker with a sense of humor that would catch you off guard with a great zinger. She loved having her kitty, Sweetie, on her lap. She especially loved family gatherings, Cubs baseball, Texas football and good barbeque. A snow storm wouldn’t keep her from her weekly beauty shop visit with Anita. Her family was her world and she loved us dearly.

Our family is grateful for the wonderful compassionate care given at Westminster Arbor. Special thanks to Bryce and Brooks. Her son, Jim, became her devoted caregiver always making sure she was safe, comfortable and content. He has earned his stars in heaven. She will be missed and loved and always in our hearts.

ALOHA, sweet Grandma.