Keith Ray Chastain

Keith Ray Chastain, 63, of Lone Jack, MO, passed away at his home on March 7, 2017. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 18, 2017 at Raytown Christian Church, 6108 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64133. Keith was born on March 11, 1953, to Estel Parks and Lolita Nadine (Lovell) Chastain, and grew up in Raytown, Missouri. He is preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his daughter Shannon Chastain of New York, NY, son Colin Chastain of Overland Park, KS, brother Curtis (Sue) of Rochester Hills, MI, sister Diane (Dave Plumer) of Louisburg, KS, brother Kent (Michelle) of Kansas City, MO, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Keith graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and from Washington University with his MBA. He was a licensed professional engineer (PE) for most of his career, and retired after 22 years with Burns and McDonnell. He was a life-long resident of the Kansas City area with a solid connection to his roots, never straying long away. Keith was very musical, enjoyed listening to all types of music, and had an amazing memory for songs, musicals, music history, groups and musicians. He was also an excellent trumpet player and was frequently asked to play taps at memorial services. Keith will be remembered by many for being an outstanding horseman. His love of all things equine defined his life. He started this journey by joining his brothers and sister as a member of the Rodeo Kids, an Independence riding group, where he learned trick riding, roping, and horsemanship. Later Keith took up reenacting, always on horseback. He reenacted the American Civil War, the War of 1812, and even jousted as a knight in armor. Keith rode with Shelby’s Fifth Missouri Cavalry, Confederate, reenacting unit for many years. Most recently Keith rode on several regional week long trail rides, and with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse in parades and various equine events. Keith’s intelligence, keen intuitive skill, and wit will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. We will also miss those times when his charm and geniality endeared him so to us. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse (www.jacksoncoposse.org), a non-profit organization that donates money to various local charities, or Children’s Mercy Hospital (www.childrensmercy.org).