Keith Eric Haddrill
Keith Eric Haddrill, 62, passed away on October 31, 2026, at his home in Manchester, Missouri, surrounded by family and love.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Phil and Bess Haddrill, Keith was raised in a musical family where he was introduced early to the world of creativity and performance. This early influence would ultimately shape the course of his life and career. He grew up in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, and graduated from Crestwood High School.
After earning a degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Michigan (Go Blue!), Keith worked for several prominent companies, including McDonnell Douglas and Boeing. However, he soon discovered that his true passion was not in technical engineering but in entertaining others and making them laugh. He made the bold decision to pursue a career in show business, becoming a professional ventriloquist and magician, and later a stage hypnotist and hypnotherapist. His “I Love to Read” school assemby program inspired thousands of kids across the U.S. He lived with a relentless drive to pursue his dreams, explore the unknown, learn and touch as many lives as possible while doing so.
His years performing as a ventriloquist on the cruise ship circuit took him to every continent and provided him with opportunities and experiences few get to enjoy. His career highlights included an appearance on The Tonight Show and serving as master of ceremonies at an event honoring 9/11 survivors alongside President George W. Bush.
Beyond the stage, Keith had a wide range of roles and hobbies. A LEGO enthusiast, avid board game player and collector, and deeply loving father. He was also a proud member of MENSA, of which he frequently reminded us, and one of the founding members of the St. Louis Crokinole Club. He enjoyed sand sculpting, table tennis and sailing, always finding new interests and experiences to pursue.
Keith is survived by his wife, Gayle; his daughters, Sydney and Jordyn, and their mother, Susan; and his siblings, Gladys, Richard, and William.
Nearly always wearing maize and blue (University of Michigan colors), Keith will be remembered for his creativity, adventurous spirit, willingness to follow an unconventional path, and the joy he brought to others through his performances and his life.
In lieu of flowers, Keith and his family request that donations be made in his memory to the St. Louis Cancer Support Community or Siteman Cancer Research.
So sorry to hear this. Keith was a great guy.
Prayer and good vibes to all his family and friends.
What a terrible loss he was a wonderful entertainer.
We used him at Royale Orleans for special events.
Always a good show , he surely took his profession serious. I would say he is irreplaceable.
So very sad to hear this. He recently became a Bunny Talk Practitioner and will be greatly missed.
What a wonderful human, funny and humble.
My sincere condolences to you and your family.
So sad to hear this. Keith was a relentless learner and doer and put his whole heart into everything he did. He is much loved and respected in the hypnosis community. Prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Keith loved his Cats 🐈⬛💜🍫
I am terribly sorry for the loss felt by the entire Haddrill, Parker, and Wilson Rose families. My deepest condolences to all of you.
Keith is truly going to be so sorely missed. I’m just so grateful that I had the privilege of personally knowing his big heart and experiencing his wonderful friendship over the last eight years. I know I’ll have more words to share in the coming days about just how much Keith meant to me, as well as to our many mutual friends we met through board gaming & all the members of the St. Louis Crokinole Club we cofounded together.
Gayle, I want you to know how incredibly thankful I am that you and Keith found each other. I still remember how excited he was to tell me all about you when your relationship was just taking off. Your strength as a couple and love for each other was clear to me every day. It was truly wonderful to see.
Sending the biggest virtual hug to all of Keith’s family and loved ones. 💜
Much love,
Erin
Oh Gayle, I’m sorry your time with Keith was so short. You found a great person to share your life with and now he is gone far too soon. Sending you prayers for strength. He will be forever in your heart.
Hugs,
Cheryl Vye
Michigan lost one of their biggest fans! Maybe his support from above will help the Big Blue! RIP Keith. Thanks for the memories.