Keith Miles

May 28, 1950 -

Jul 29, 2026

Old-timer and hard rock miner Keith Miles, 76, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 29, 2026, at his home in Hatcher Pass, Alaska, exactly as he would have wanted.

Keith was born on May 28, 1950, in Lakeport, Calif., to Charles "Chuck" and Myrle Miles. He graduated from Ukiah High School in 1968 and left shortly thereafter for a life of adventure. His career took him through more than 100 mines in the Lower 48, Papua New Guinea, and finally his dream of Alaska, where he moved to work at the Independence Mine and Lucky Shot Mine in the early '80s.

He resided in Alaska for 44 years and in recent years returned to the Lucky Shot Mine as the mine superintendent, working there to the very end, a true labor of love. The KM gold vein and the newly acquired property and facilities have been named in his honor, and he recently received the Alaska Miners Association Chuck Hawley Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the Alaska mining community.

Keith had a tight-knit group of industry friends and community. Known for his witty one-liners, toothy grin and penchant for mining tales from around the globe, he was a dear friend to many near and far. Keith was also a member of the 49th State Street Rodders and loved sharing his cherry red '69 Chevelle with kids, friends and fellow car enthusiasts.

He is survived by his daughter, Moriah Miles and partner Wild; brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Susie Miles of Ukiah, Calif.; beloved grandchild, Wyatt; and many cherished friends and neighbors.

The family asks that favorite Keith one-liners, stories and photos be sent to undergroundalaska@yahoo.com, in lieu of flowers or donations; they will be shared at Keith's Wake on Sept. 12, 2026.