Keith Ian Urwin

Keith Urwin, 49, of Warren, Oregon, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026, while pursuing the passion that had captivated him for much of his life-flying.

To know Keith was to know someone who believed there was no challenge too great and no skill beyond learning. A perfectionist by nature and an adventurer at heart, he approached life with curiosity, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Keith built an impressive career through hard work, determination, and an extraordinary mechanical aptitude. After years as a millwright, he became the Maintenance Manager at Tube Forgings of America, where his leadership, problem-solving ability, and high standards earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. Keith believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing right. Cutting corners simply wasn't in his nature.

His greatest joy was building a life with his wife, Jamie. Together they transformed their property in Warren into the home they dreamed of, completing project after project with their own hands. Keith's construction projects are a lasting reflection of his vision, determination, and remarkable talent.

Keith's adventurous spirit was woven throughout his life. Long before he became a pilot, he found excitement racing Yamaha sport bikes, riding motocross, exploring the sand dunes on ATVs, drag racing, scuba diving, paragliding, salmon fishing, and crabbing. He rarely chose the ordinary when adventure was an option.

In 2023, Keith fulfilled one of his lifelong dreams by purchasing his own Lancair 235. Flying was never just another hobby-it was freedom. Watching him talk about flying or seeing his face light up as he prepared for another flight, was witnessing someone who had found exactly where he belonged.

Despite his many talents, Keith's greatest pride wasn't found in the things he built or the adventures he pursued. It was found in the people he loved.

Keith is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Jamie; his son, Dakota; his father, Arthur; his mother, Margo; his sisters, Angela and Nicole; six nieces and nephews; two grandchildren; and countless friends, family members, and fellow aviation enthusiasts whose lives are richer for having known him.

A celebration of Keith's remarkable life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, at Stark's Twin Oaks Air Park in Hillsboro, OR.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Keith's honor to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Foundation Scholarships, helping future pilots pursue the same dream that brought Keith so much happiness. The family also encourages everyone to honor Keith in their own way: learn a new skill, build something with your own hands, chase an adventure, or finally pursue the dream you've been putting off. Nothing would have made Keith happier than knowing he inspired someone else to live life to the fullest and without fear.

"Learn something new. Build something with your own hands. Chase the adventure. Life is too short not to."

EAA Aviation Foundation Scholarships: https://www.eaa.org/eaa/apps/donations/scholarships-donation-form?utm_source=af_scholarships&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=af_donation_2025&utm_content=link <https://shared.outlook.inky.com/link?domain=www.eaa.org&t=h.eJxVkM1qwzAQhF8l-NBTY9myhe2ASd7EbKRVrER_rGRMKX33Ri2B9rQw3-7MsJ_VRrY6Hao155hOjO37XiNAHejGnpNBjImp4CGb4BNLcg0WKK0mpuNLPupA7rxlt6SwkcQZ9PJ38a0gh8psbibUSAT2R5PgIpibLwcvs4U3XPzS4DP6PFvjH9X7oXqUntLi0zUHjy6ye20_rgReXbQhC7vXay2DYw3CtW2wVYPCjveimTqUXLR8VKPohGbtMPbDIHjX1dM09ePYlwAsAXfaaDf-cnNgbHErRBXyT8nla-3XN59BbIA.MEQCIBba_o1Z-UPAZgD-YynLiOhsrfWF_gMSa84WLK1koz5VAiBe56HmOUYW8INZMrB5-LxSxOWQvzxOFu4Y-ahqqoyxRQ>

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