Charles Keith Wanklyn

Charles Keith Wanklyn, age 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 17th, 2021 at 12:20 pm at Porter Hospice in Colorado. He was born on April 30th, 1937 in Marysville, Kansas to Clara Mae (Neal) Wanklyn and Albert Wanklyn. Keith was a 1955 graduate of Frankfort High School. He graduated Kansas State University in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He married Darlene Harry on September 13th, 1959 in Frankfort, Kansas. Keith and Darlene moved from Kansas to Colorado in 1960. Keith started his career with Martin Marietta (Lockheed Martin) as a mechanical engineer and retired with Martin in 1995. He served as the Chief Engineer for the successful Titan ll program.

Keith was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and great grandpa. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, Broncos football, Fox News and traveling with family in his RV. He loved a good spirited debate on current issues.

Keith was preceded in death by his wife Darlene on March 28th, 2021; and his parents, Clara Mae and Albert Wanklyn. He is survived by his two daughters, Cherie Freund and Patsy Dietz; four grandchildren, Justin, Crystal, Brittany and Brandi; five great grandchildren, Everett, Adaline, Easton, Saylor Mae, and step-great grandchild Eli; his sister Janice Wissman and brother Dennis Wanklyn.

He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Keith’s family will be hosting a Celebration of Life Service at Heflebower Funeral Services on April 22, from 11:00 am to noon. Please, feel free to stop by and share in the laughs, memories, and reminiscing.

Luncheon to follow funeral services at 1:00 pm at 9221 Foxfire Dr., Highlands Ranch, Colorado.