Keith E Bazaire
Parrish, FL
July 31, 1938 - April 24, 2024
Keith E. Bazaire, of Parrish, Florida., formerly Charlotte, Michigan passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 24, 2024 at the age of 85. He was born on July 31, 1938 in Isabella County, the son of Henry and Wilma Bazaire. Keith grew up in Barryton, Michigan, and along with his 3 siblings, helped his parents run and maintain the family farm, which instilled in him a work ethic that would serve him well throughout his life. Keith lived a long and fulfilling life with his wife of 64 years, Connie (Carter) by his side, they were married on June 24, 1961 at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, Michigan.
After graduating from Barryton High School in 1956, Keith went on to study Chemical Engineering, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1960 from Michigan State. He would later attend Ohio State University, where he earned a Master's degree in chemical engineering, and shortly thereafter, Keith began his career at Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan, as a Plastics Engineer.
A new professional opportunity was presented to Keith in 1968, when his father-in-law, Theo Carter (of Charlotte) asked Keith to join him in the retail grocery company that he founded, known as Carter's IGA. Keith accepted Theo's offer, and the two, along with trusted and loyal associates, would begin building a successful chain of grocery stores in the Mid-Michigan area.
Upon Theo's retirement in 1980, Keith would reside over the company as the President and CEO for the next 20 years, ultimately guiding the company to a 21 retail store operation throughout the State of Michigan. Keith served on several Board of Directors positions over the years, which included Oven Fresh Bakery in Grand Rapids, Michigan Grocers Association, and Independent Bank. Keith also served as the President of the Charlotte School Board, 1981.
After three decades of service and guidance, Keith retired from Carter's, Inc. in 1999.
Keith and Connie enjoyed many years of traveling with their life-long friends, Larry and Sonnie Cody of Charlotte. Keith and Larry both earned their private pilot licenses in 1988, and would later purchase a Cherokee Piper airplane together, which they used to fly around the State of Michigan and beyond attending summer and fall festivals, trips to Mackinac Island, etc. Keith, Connie, and the Cody's would discover, and fall in love with a spot on the island of Maui, Hawaii, that they returned to on vacation for many years. Over the years, friendships were made on the Island, and Maui always held a special place in Keith's heart.
Later in life, Keith would grow a passion for gardening and landscaping, and would spend countless hours planting and maintaining his butterfly garden, and tropical flowering plants at his home in Florida.
Keith always cared deeply about his family, friends, neighbors, and his community. He will be missed beyond measure, and the memories he created will forever be cherished.
Keith is survived by his wife Connie; son's Jeffrey, Kevin, and Michael (Erron Sparks); grandchildren, Allison (Bill) Bazaire, Carter (Lincy) Bazaire, Ty (Kristin) Pion, Brooke (Daniel) Miller; great grandchild, Hazel; sister, Jeanette (Lance) Natsch; brother, Gary (Beverly) Bazaire. Keith was preceded in death by his father, Henry; mother, Wilma; father-in-law, Theo Carter; mother-in-law, Atha Carter; and brother, Bill.
Family and friends are encouraged to support Keith's family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com
A graveside service for family and friends will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte, Michigan, Summer 2024. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
