The world has lost an amazing father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and patriot. Theodor H. Keff, 94, of Purling passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026, holding his son Chris’s hand. He is now home with his Lord.

Ted, or Teddy as many knew him, was born on August 3, 1932, in Vienna, Austria, to the late Maximilian and Maria (Klinger) Keff. During World War II, he and his mother endured a long separation from his father, who was interned in a concentration camp before being liberated. After that, he was released in England, then made his way to New York and established a knitting factory. Ted and his mother were finally able to reunite with him in New York, where Ted continued his schooling before joining the Army. He served overseas in Europe as a translator for the general overseeing the European division, as well as being a mechanical engineer. He was immensely proud of his service to this nation.

After returning home, Ted began the next chapter of his life. He came back with his wife, Christa Marianne, and together they built a home and a family. The family later moved the knitting factory to New Jersey, where they worked and lived. Ted and his father ran the factory until his father retired. Ted then continued the business with his partner, Gerhard. After Gerhard retired, Ted’s son Leonard stepped in and worked alongside him until Ted’s own retirement. The knitting mill was known for its high-quality workmanship and was one of very few of its kind in the country. Ted was known by employees for his kindness, generosity, and steady leadership.

He purchased a farm in Greene County, a family property he loved, and it became a meaningful part of his life. In later years, he moved to the Round Top area, where he lived with his son Christopher and daughter-in-law Monica. He enjoyed retirement there, watching the mountains and wildlife, and traveling both alone and with family. He loved to travel, especially to Austria and Canada. Visiting family in Austria was particularly meaningful, and those trips brought him great joy.

Ted’s greatest pride was seeing his family grow and thrive. He is survived by his children Christopher Keff and his wife Monica, his son Leonard Keff and his fiancée Cheryl Bobe, and his daughter Linda Milewski; his grandchildren Christopher, Haley, Aniston, Angelo, Matthew, Melissa, Eva, Teddy, Jessie, Jeannie, and Christian; and his great-grandchildren Sheridan and Cillian, along with many friends and chosen family, and others who brought him great joy.

A celebration of life will be held on November 14, from 12-3 p.m. at Annarella’s Restaurant, 276 Malden Turnpike, Saugerties.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Honeyford Memorial American Legion Post 110, PO Box 279, Leeds, NY 12451.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Breanna Lennon DelVecchio and Robert Gaus of Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill.