Holly MatkinLebanon, NH – New Hampshire State Police (NHSP) Trooper First Class Drew Keith passed away on Feb. 16, following his third battle with colon cancer, his family said.
Trooper Keith, 58, received his first cancer diagnosis in 2014, and beat the disease twice, according to his obituary.
“While most people would have seen the diagnosis as reasons for retirement, TFC Keith refused to let cancer end his career as a Trooper,” his obituary read. “Despite many long months of surgery and chemotherapy, TFC Keith returned to the road both times at 100 percent.”
But in 2016, he received his third colon cancer diagnosis.
“This time it had spread and was more aggressive,” according to his obituary. “Despite undergoing chemotherapy again and courageously fighting for his life, TFC Keith continued to work on light duty while assigned to the sex offender registration unit.”
Trooper Keith passed away peacefully at a hospice care facility, surrounded by his family.
“TFC Keith fought a long valiant battle against cancer with great strength,” his obituary read.
Prior to his law enforcement career, Trooper Keith served as a U.S. Air Force Security Forces sergeant, his agency said in a press release.
He went on to work for the Newignton Police Department, the Hampton Police Department, the Hanover Police Department, and the Amherst Police Department, before he joined the NHSP in 2001.
During his career with the NHSP, Trooper Keith was a member of the Special Events Response Team and the Division’s Drill Team.
He was named Grange Trooper of the Year in 2015, “as he epitomized the highest ideals of fairness, professionalism and integrity,” his obituary read.
Trooper Keith’s law enforcement career spanned 34 years.
“He was and always will be a constant source of inspiration to generations of NH Troopers,” his obituary read.
Trooper Keith leaves behind his wife of 33 years, Mary Ann, as well as his siblings, in-laws, niece, and nephews.
He is also survived by “his Law Enforcement Brothers & Sisters,” as well as many friends and extended family members, according to his obituary.
Trooper Keith’s memorial service will be held on Friday.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of New Hampshire State Police Trooper First Class Drew Keith, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.