From College Sweethearts to Raising Two Successful Kids: Late Gig Harbor,WA Native, and PLU Coach Jud Keim and Wife Sari Tollefson Keim Married for Decades Until His Passing
Late Jud Keim's wife, Sari Keim is an Oregon native.
September 11, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 11, 2026
Jud Keim, a longtime football coach at Pacific Lutheran University and co-defensive coordinator at the University of Puget Sound, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2026, leaving his longtime wife, Sari, two children, and loved ones devastated.
According to reports, Jud Keim passed away after a long battle with cancer at the untimely age of 62.
Furthermore, many of his loved ones are paying tribute to the legendary local football coach, Jud Keim, and extending their heartfelt condolences to his wife and family.
Jud Keim touched the lives of many athletes with his three-decade-long coaching career, winning several honors, and also with his kind and cheerful nature.
In addition to his coaching journey, Jud Keim was also known as a devoted husband to his longtime wife, Sari Tollefson Keim.
Jud Keim first met his wife, Sari Tollefson Keim, while attending Pacific Lutheran University. Sari’s father was a member of the school’s Board of Regents at the time.
Similarly, what began as a friendship at their alma mater soon blossomed into a relationship, eventually leading to their decades-long marriage.
Sari Tollefson Keim stood by Jud’s side as a constant supporter through all his good and bad times, including his battle with cancer.
Jud Keim also often shared pictures of his longtime wife, Sari, on his social media, expressing his love and pride for her.
Late Jud Keim’s Wife, Sari Tollefson Keim, is an Investment Professional
Jud Keim’s wife, , a 1987 graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, is a seasoned investment advisor representative with Thrivent Investment Management Inc., bringing over three decades of managed account experience to her clients.
Since joining Thrivent in 2005, Sari has been dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals through thoughtful and strategic investment management.
Furthermore, Sari’s professional journey in the financial services industry began on August 5, 1994. Throughout her career, she has held registrations with prestigious organizations, including American Express Financial Advisors Inc., IDS Life Insurance Company, and Shurgard Realty Advisors, Inc.
She is licensed to operate in Arizona, California, and Washington, holding Series 63, 66, 7, and 24 licenses, which reflect her comprehensive expertise in investment management and financial planning.
Sari also serves as a board member of NW WAG Rescue, an organization dedicated to the welfare of animals in need.
Similarly, Sari is also an avid outdoors enthusiast. She enjoys boating with her family near their home in Gig Harbor, Washington.
Late Jud Keim and Wife, Sari Tollefson Keim, Raised Both of Their Children To Be Amazing Athletes
Jud Keim and Sari Tollefson Keim’s children, Kalen and Jace, followed in their father’s footsteps in sports.
Their son Jace and daughter, Kalen, are both graduates of Pacific Lutheran University, their parents’ alma mater.
Similarly, Jud and Sari’s first child, daughter , born on November 11, 1996, excelled in Women’s track and field at PLU, where he competed in six meets for the Lutes, posted career-bests in the 100-meter dash with a 12.83 and in the 200-meter dash, running a 26.38.
Before that, Kalen was a four-year letterwinner as a member of the Tides’ basketball team.
Likewise, their youngest child, son , is a former four-year varsity football starting wide receiver at PLU.
Prior to PLU, Jace showcased his impressive athletic skills while playing football at Peninsula High School, where he served as team captain once. He also won the first-team all-league wide receiver title.
Jace earned his degree in Kinesiology, Health and Fitness Education in 2026 and currently serves as the Greenskeeper at Chambers Bay Golf Course in Tacoma, Washington.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jud Keim’s daughter, Kalen Keim, has been working as a Senior Operations Analyst at Slalom.
- His family has yet to provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
- Check other Articles on
Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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