OBIT/Statement of the McCaw family on the Passing of Keith W. McCaw

Business Wire,  Dec 16, 2002  

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OBIT...

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 16, 2002

Keith W. McCaw was born in Seattle, Washington November 17, 1953. He was the youngest of the four sons of John Elroy and Marion Oliver McCaw. Keith attended Seattle's Lakeside School along with his older brothers and after graduation went on to receive a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Colorado College.

Keith played an active role in the family cable television and paging businesses when he finished school. Beyond business operations, Keith took the lead in many of the company's paging acquisitions helping grow McCaw Paging to be among the largest in the nation. He resigned his day-to-day responsibilities as Executive Vice President of McCaw Cellular Communications, Inc. in 1986 to pursue his own interests, but remained on the board of directors until 1991.

An active outdoorsman, Keith had a passion for skiing, which led him to acquire an interest in both Stevens Pass and Mission Ridge and Schweitzer Mountain ski areas. He shared his brothers' passion for flying as a recreational pilot, was a very experienced yachtsman and enjoyed golfing and diving with his family and many friends.

Keith left an imprint on the greater Seattle community through his philanthropic contributions to the arts as well as health and human services. Many of his charitable commitments were made anonymously. He focused on at-risk youth in King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties as well as the Ketchum, Idaho area where the family also has a home. Keith was also very supportive of the Seattle Children's Theatre, The Museum of Flight and Lakeside School. He and his wife's contribution of $5 million dollars were matched by those of his brothers' families. The combined $20 million gift led the fund raising campaign for the new performance hall at the Seattle Center, which will be named for their mother Marion Oliver McCaw.

Speaking on behalf of the family, eldest brother Bruce McCaw said, "Keith was a very devoted husband and father and took great pride in his children. Keith loved to laugh and be with his friends whom he cherished so much. He could be a tough business negotiator one minute and a great practical joker the next. His passing will leave a tremendous hole in not only our family but the broader community that was touched by his friendship and generosity."

Mr. McCaw passed away in his home early Sunday morning from natural causes. Funeral services will be held at Seattle's St. Marks Cathedral at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday December 21, 2002, with a reception to follow at the Seattle Golf Club. He is survived by his wife of 20 years Mary Kay McCaw, two young daughters, his mother Marion, his three brothers, Bruce, Craig and John and their families. Remembrances should be directed to the children's charity of your choice or The Museum of Flight.

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