Keith Blair Maguran, 70, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024 in Murrieta, California, surrounded by his loving family whom he cared for dearly.
Born on October 2, 1953 in Detroit, Michigan, Keith Maguran was the son of Todor “Theodore” Maguran of Berwind, West Virginia and Elizabeth Benkovich of Steelton, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Hamtramck, Michigan and was a graduate of St. Laudislaus High School and fluid power technical school in Detroit.
“Yankee Keith” was known for his social personality, emboldened with the gift to talk to anyone and make friends quickly. He had a joy for using his hands to build things whether it was carpentry or metal work; however, being a son of Detroit, his deep passion was for cars, specifically muscle cars and hot rods. Whether it was rebuilding, collecting, racing, researching, or attending auto shows, Keith was an active member of the Houston gearhead community.
On November 28, 1975, Keith Maguran married Elsa Mercedes Aenlle at St. Louise de Marillac Catholic Church in Warren, Michigan, and together they moved to Houston, Texas in 1978 where they raised one child in Northwest Houston. He cherished his role as a proud father to Eric (Andrea), loving grandfather to Emilia, and a figurehead who instilled values of integrity, grit, and determination for the family he devoted his life to.
Professionally, Keith Maguran worked primarily as an expert Master Hydraulic Technician for over 45 years. His distinguished career took him all over the United States with work on fluid power systems for various industries including in petroleum and construction with other notable projects for rides at the former Six Flags AstroWorld and NASA’s flight simulators. Keith also owned a highly successful metal polishing business that supplied the Houston Corvette scene with its mirror finishes before the Houston Autoramas during the 1980s and 1990s.
Keith Maguran will be remembered for his sharp sense of humor, his years as a professional guitar player in Detroit night clubs, a skillful poker player, and crew member of Keith Breazeal Racing’s three-time championship team. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him.
Keith is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Elsa Maguran. He is also survived by his child, Eric (Andrea) Maguran and grandchild Emilia Maguran.
A memorial mass to celebrate Keith Maguran’s life will be held on May 17, 2024 10:30AM at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 19222 TX-249, Houston, TX 77070.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Prince of Peace Catholic Church (https://www.pophouston.org/give/).
