Keith did not make the most of his education, much to the disappointment of his father, but once he convinced himself that teaching was to be his career, he developed a determination to overcome all problems and have a truly useful career.
He was greatly aided by his long and happy marriage. His experience led him to spend retirement in a wide range of roles and activities including the publication of his Cornish novel, The Bootlegger's Widow and the deeply researched biography of his father, Public Library Pioneer.