Keith A. Hettel of La Plata, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5,2022 with his loving family by his side. He was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in October 2021. He faced this health challenge with grace, courage, and dignity.

Born on January 22, 1952 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, he was the son of William Hettel and Lois Hettel who predeceased him. Keith received his bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock University PA. and his Masters degree from George Washington University, in Washington D.C.

Keith Came to work for the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) after a year of teaching in New Jersey. Starting out his teaching career as a fourth-grade teacher, Keith was a helping teacher, vice principal, principal at Gale Bailey Elementary School, he was honored to open William B Wade Elementary school. For the rest of his career, Keith was the executive director then assistant superintendent of Human Resources. He also spent several years as the assistant superintendent of Supporting Services. He retired in June of 2016.

Keith was a long-time member of the Bryans Road volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. He Services included Past President and a member of the Board of Directors. Keith also served on the Charles County Board of Fire and Rescue Commission for several years. A member of the catholic faith, Keith attended St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in McMconchie.

Keith as a well known in the community for his friendly personality and kind demeanor, but also for his support of all students and staff. Family was a priority for Keith. A husband, father, friend, relative like Keith is such a rare, generous and kind gift. Keith was a person that everyone needs, full of smiles and laughter, love and many unrecognized good deeds.

Keith was a blessed by a loving family and is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kathleen, sons Josh (Julie), Scott (Shelia); beloved grandchildren, Maggie Noah, Elanor, Hayden, and Adeline, who will dearly miss their grandad.

His brother, Peter Hettel (Laurie) of New Jersey, also survived along with many nieces and nephews, cousins, two aunts, and a multitude of friends. Keith will be dearly missed by many.

A gathering will be held on Wednesday May 11,2022 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the Bryans Road Volunteer Fire Department. 3099 Livingston Road Bryans Road, Maryland 20616. Fireman's Prayers will be at 7pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Thursday May 12,2022 at 10am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 201 St. Mary's Ave, LaPlata Maryland 20646. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bryans Road Volunteer and Rescue P.O. Box 111, Bryans Road MD 20616, or St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church P.O box 278 Ports Tobacco MD 20677, or St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth and Family located at 4901 Eastern Ave NE Hyattsville MD 20782.

The family asks that you take time with your family and friends, to continue to love each other. Make a toast to enduring friendships both lifelong and beyond.