It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Robert Schwarzer, who passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026.
Born in 1946 in Los Angeles, California, to the late Donald E. and Elsie V. Schwarzer, Keith grew up in San Diego and graduated from James Madison High School in 1964. An active young man, he enjoyed playing tennis, basketball, and golf. Following high school, he attended Mesa Junior College for two years before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force.
Keith served honorably for four years during the Vietnam War, stationed at Pleiku Air Base in South Vietnam. Upon returning to California, he settled in Atascadero and dedicated his professional life to working in a juvenile detention facility. Keith later married Mary Ellen Sickles (Fish), who passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026. They eventually made their home in Deming, New Mexico.
In his personal life, Keith was known for his generous spirit as a Continental Divide Trail (CDT) Angel for many hikers passing through. Keith was also a dedicated member of the Luna County Volunteer Fire Departments for 17 years. He also had a passion for travel, particularly his many trips to Loreto, BCS, Mexico.
Keith is survived by his sister, Donna (Schwarzer) Klages; his cousins, Jeffery A. Schwarzer and Pamela (Schwarzer) Socks; and his stepsons, Ryan Fish and Randy Fish. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be Friday January 30, 2026 at 1 o'clock in the afternoon at Baca's Funeral Chapel. Inurnment will be Monday February 2, 2026 at 1 PM at Ft. Bayard National Cemetery.
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