Keith Eugene Totten
Age 85, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan.
Keith was born on July 26, 1940, in Glen Alum, West Virginia, to Albert S. Totten Sr. and Burlie L. Ottgen (Doss). He lived a life centered entirely around his family, who were his greatest purpose and joy.
Keith was a devoted husband, father, Opa, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ingeborg W. Totten, to whom he was married for more than 65 years. Keith met the love of his life while serving in the United States Army, when he was stationed in Germany. Their love story was unique and enduring, built on commitment, sacrifice, and deep devotion that lasted a lifetime.
Keith is survived by his daughter, Elisabeth Louise Elke Cook (Totten), and her husband, Eric Cook; his grandchildren, who were his greatest treasures in life, Elisa Dalana Cook and Evan Keith Loren Cook; and his daughter, Christina Marie Totten. Being “Opa” was one of Keith’s proudest roles, and his grandchildren were the light of his life.
He is further survived by his siblings: Albert S. Totten Jr. and his wife, Bobbi; Wanda S. Rowley and her husband, Mike; and Don L. Ottgen Jr. and his wife, Pam. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Keith proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he worked at General Motors until his retirement in 2001. He had a lifelong love for cars and took great pride in his work.
Keith was preceded in death by his daughter, Elke Louise Totten; his parents, Albert S. Totten Sr. and Burlie L. Ottgen (Doss); his stepfather, Don L. Ottgen Sr.; and his brother, James W. Totten Sr. (Sonny).
Keith fought a long and courageous battle with heart disease, kidney disease, and cancer. His family takes comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended and that he is now healed, whole, and at peace in the presence of the Lord. His faith and love live on through those he leaves behind.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw St. Lansing. Interment will follow in East Lawn Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the funeral home, and for one hour prior to the funeral on Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Foundation in memory of Keith.
9 Messages to “Keith Eugene Totten”


Ronald Colson
February 1, 2026 at 1:05 pmIt was an honor to have had you for a coworker, partner in crime and a great friend. You will be missed dearly. Prayers for you family… Ron (Boogie) Colson
Elisabeth cook
February 2, 2026 at 8:49 amThank you Boogie. My dad cherished you as a friend.
Ron Colson
February 3, 2026 at 11:13 amYeah, we go back a while He’ll be truly missed
Kathleen Clark and Tim Clark
February 2, 2026 at 9:44 amHe was a wonderful man I’m glad to have had the pleasure of knowing him and watching him with his children. And grandchildren.
Sending my deepest condolences to the family.
Keith and Holly Roy
February 2, 2026 at 9:50 amPlease accept our condolences for your families loss.
Christopher Totten
February 2, 2026 at 9:50 amIll never forget growing up being there for holidays and summers at the pool,while he would tell me KFC stood for Keith’s fried chicken haha sorry for your loss he was a great man im sad it has been so long since I had gotten to see him.
Tracy B
February 2, 2026 at 2:27 pmIt was my pleasure to take care of Keith. I will miss seeing him and his wife. Thoughts and prayers.
Ayla Rice ( Ottgen )
February 3, 2026 at 10:59 amGrowing up, I spent a lot of time at the house. He called me black eyes, because my eyes were so dark. Pretty sure he got me my first burger from hot n now lol. I remember he would make hot and mild burritos and take them with him to work on occasion. I can hear his voice cussing me and christina out for once again getting into something we shouldn’t have. I spent LONG days over there. Rest peacefully Uncle Keith.
Karin
February 5, 2026 at 1:36 pmHi Uncle Keith,
now you arrived in heaven.
I know you will met my mom over there. Tell my mom i miss her so much.
I know you always called her “Schnitzelbeth “, that was so funny.
Wish you a good time over there.
Good bye is not the end.
Seperated in the here and now, but what we carry in our hearts remains forever.