1962
2017
Keith Michael Northrop 54 of Copperas Cove died August 22, 2017 rescuing five orphans from a freak shark attack at the Lampasas river. He managed to capture three of the sharks, but succumbed to the final attack in which the final shark teamed up with an eagle that attacked from above. He was a larger than life adventurous soul who packed more living in 54 years than most experience in 100.
He was born August 26, 1962 in Wurzburg, Germany to Jerry and Dee Northrop. Keith was a very free spirited individual, always finding enjoyment and fascination in his observations of nature, the wider world, and his own creative thoughts. He was a pure character, unencumbered by others, always doing what his creative spirit intuited. He loved doing things out of the ordinary, was very quick witted, and possessed a huge love of laughter. His connection with nature and love of all life brought him to open an exotic reptile business, Chameleon Counters, and exotic bird business, Birds in Paradise. Through the years his infectious personality and love of life and nature was instilled in whomever has known him. He loved his family, and brought boundless happiness to them. He's been described as a mentor by many, sharing with others not only a love of nature, but also a philosophy of life that celebrates uniqueness, creativity, childlike fascination, and a vibrant embrace of our humanity and connection to the world.
He was preceded in death by his father Gerald R. Northrop last July 2016. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra Northrop of 24 years, his mother Dee Northrop, son Benjamin Ball, daughter Jaime Wesson, grandson Isaac, granddaughter Chloe, brother Kevin and niece Autumn.
Visitation will be held August 29 from 6pm to 8pm . A funeral service will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Copperas Cove, TX on August 30 at 1pm. Internment will follow at Copperas Cove City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations towards the shark attack battle memorial plaque that will be constructed on site *or to Chameleon Counters at 2205 E Business Hwy 190, Copperas Cove, Tx 76522 if you have fear of shark reprisal.
Arrangements under the direction of Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Copperas Cove, Texas.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home - Copperas Cove.
December 23, 2017
Acquaintance
Bing D.
So saddened to hear this. Family and I lived in Kempner for ten years and visited CC weekly. Keith was so full of life and a genuinely great person. Always made me laugh. You will forever be missed.
September 17, 2017
Acquaintance
B P
You will be missed.
September 15, 2017
Acquaintance
Glen Folkard
RIP Keith your friends speak so highly of you. Godspeed.
August 30, 2017
To a unique person...you'll be surely missed by all.
DeAnna (Florida)
August 29, 2017
Christina Wozniak
You always made us laugh. You looked at the world with such joy and appreciation. No one could ever be unhappy around You!
Heaven has gained greatly.
We will miss you
August 29, 2017
May you rest in peace. My prayers to your family.
August 29, 2017
Andy Hixenbaugh
I think the one word that best described Keith to me is Genuine. You don't find that in a lot of people.
RIP, my friend.
August 28, 2017
Acquaintance
A Jones
The animals in Heaven celebrate your arrival. Rest In Peace.
August 28, 2017
David McBride
Rest in Peace Bro .... Always such a Charismatic Guy .... full of laughter and Joy.....
August 28, 2017
Raven Wolfmoon
Rest easy. Your work is done here.
August 27, 2017
Kathy
To my oldest nephew, words cannot express my feelings at this time. All your cousins in Michigan send their condolences and will miss your Facebook chats. Love and kisses, Aunty Kathy
August 27, 2017
Delores Northrop
My beloved first born; what a tremendous joy you have been throughout your life with us. Your unexpected loss will forever leave me in despair. I will miss you tremendously as long as I breathe. Sleep with the angels and your precious 'Harley'. Love, Mom
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Funeral services provided by:
Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home - Copperas Cove211 West Ave B, Copperas Cove, TX 76522
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