Dear Members and Friends,

I have struggled over how to deliver the news of the death of Citizens United's first president, Keith Chain (December 15, 1952 - February 25, 2002), at the age of 49. The cause of his death was pancreatic cancer. Keith served as CU's president from our corporate beginning in 1986 until August of 1990. The officers and trustees encouraged him to stay at the helm; he was a good leader and was instrumental in taking the organization from an informal grassroots coalition to a registered charitable nonprofit organization. Key in this effort were Todd Heck, Steve Testa and Keith. Without Keith's leadership this evolution would not have been possible.

For many years our brochure encouraged people to join using a quote that Keith liked: "The stewardship of the Maurice River is in the hands of those who elect to participate in its preservation." These words still ring true today.

Keith worked at Wheaton Scientific for 24 years. When I visited him these four things struck me: his kindness to those who reported to him, his dedication to his job, his tidy work area and the physical energy he added to every task. When he wasn't walking briskly from place to place he was swiveling continually in his chair to address the inquiries of his fellow workers. Keith was a fan of the Beatles, and the Cowboys. He loved animals and affectionately referred to his three cats as "the girls." Two of them, Sadie and Martha, were named after Beatles songs.

I remember Keith as a person who would always make me laugh in the face of adversity. Recently I delivered flowers from CU to him in the hospital. Even though he was clearly suffering he still had me laughing.

His passion was golf and I am told he was an accomplished player. He and his brother Todd spoke of golf outings past and hopes of future tee times. If there are golf courses in the hereafter I know where you'll find Keith.

Sincerely,

Jane Morton Galetto
President
Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River and Its Tributaries, Inc.

The family has elected Citizens United, PO Box 474, Millville or the SPCA, Sherman & Orchard Roads, Vineland, NJ 08360 to receive memorials in Keith's name. We are grateful for their generosity.