Remembering Mr. D’Iberville

Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. A very special man known as Mr. D’Iberville passed away this week after serving the citizens of D’Iberville for more than 28 years.

Deputy Chief of Police Walter Keck began his law enforcement career in 1989 after serving 27 years in the Air Force. This past Monday, he passed away at the age of 75. The service he provided to the people living in D’Iberville earned him his unforgettable title. Those in local law enforcement say if you didn’t know his name, you certainly knew his face. D’iberville police officer Windy Swetman said, “He was known as Mr. D’Iberville and that’s something he earned that whether it was out there in Cruisin’ the Coast. He liked to play the part of Barney Fife of D’Iberville. Walter was all over the community.”

Never asking for recognition for his service, Keck was humble and always served with a joyful heart. D’Iberville Chief of Police Wayne Payne said, “He’s the kind of worker that any chief of police would want. He was loyal. He was dedicated and he was very compassionate. There’ve been several families in D’Iberville that Walter took money out of his own pocket and gave it to them.”

After serving the City of D’Iberville for more than two decades, Officer Keck’s legacy still drives on.  “This was Chief Keck’s Tahoe and only a few months ago did I start driving it so each and every day that I get up and go to work there’s a little part of Walter going to work with me. We’re out there working the streets together,” said Swetman.

Police officials say the entire city that knew Walter is grieving, but they know they were very lucky to have had a special police officer like Walter Keck for as long as they did. “He was my friend. He was a hard worker and we’re certainly gonna miss him,” said Chief Payne.

A visitation for Walter Keck will be held Sunday and the funeral will take place Monday.