Harrison Keith Mearns, 64

Harrison Keith Mearns, 64, of East Hope, Idaho, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, March 1, 2009. Family and friends are invited to a gathering in his memory on Saturday, March 7, at 1 p.m., at the Little Church in Hope.

Keith was born on Feb. 12, 1945, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Harry and Evelyn Mearns. He grew up and attended schools in Brooklyn and New York City, receiving his associate’s degree in commercial art. Keith served his country in the United States Army.

Keith married Carol Marie Thorkelson on May 18, 1966, in Reigatt, England. He was self-employed and formed M2 Construction 14 years ago with his son, Craig. Keith and Carol moved to Hope 14 years ago.

He enjoyed his family, sailing, skiing, and traveling.

Although he was fighting the ALS disease, he lived life to the fullest and taught his kids to do the same.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 42 years, Carol Mearns of East Hope; three children, Scott Keith (Elizabeth) Mearns of Washington, D.C., Kimberly (Michael) Ball of Sandpoint, Idaho, and Craig Todd (Audra) Mearns of Sandpoint; six precious grandchildren, Kaya Ball, Conrad Mearns, Ellie Mearns, Maddie Mearns, Jasmine Mearns and Ella Mearns; a sister, Ruthanne Gullakson (Don) of Connecticut; a niece and nephew, Laurie and Don; two brothers, Dwight and David Mearns of New York.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

 The family will host a sailboat flotilla this summer on the lake to share the joy that sailing has brought to his life and ours. We would like to thank the wonderful and compassionate professionals at Hospice who helped us through this very difficult time.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Keith’s memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his online guest book.