Trent Schwarzenberger Keys

In Loving Memory of Trent Schwarzenberger Keys

Trent Schwarzenberger Keys was born on April 7, 1941, to Roy John Schwarzenberger Keys and Sarah Glenice Brockbank in Holladay, Utah, and passed away on December 24, 2023. He leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Trent was a remarkable soul who had a zest for life that was truly contagious. During his younger days, he was an active member of the Olympus Mounties, a horse-riding group he proudly shared with his sister. As he grew older, Trent continued his love for horses, spending summers in New Mexico on a Horse Ranch where he formed deep and meaningful bonds with his cousins and friends. Trent graduated from Granite High School, Class of 1959, and was a Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity member at the University of Utah. He joined the US Army Reserves and also served as a Missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints in France.

Trent’s love for his pioneer heritage and Utah history inspired him to take on the roles of a train conductor, woodworker and Father Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park. There, he captivated the imaginations of those who crossed his path. The loving relationships gained from the guests and coworkers, who became his extended family, brought him immense joy. Throughout his entire life, his artistic spirit shone through his endeavors as an accomplished artist, sculptor, folk artist, and skilled carpenter.

For over 50 years, Trent brought joy and warmth to countless hearts as Santa Claus. His Santa visits became a cherished family tradition to many, creating magical moments and memories throughout several generations. His Santa persona reached a broader audience through Hallmark movies and television commercials for Harmons and Toyota, bringing smiles to faces far and wide. Trent's commitment to community and service extended beyond the holiday season as he generously volunteered at the Temple.
Trent was a loving father to his children Ashley (Justin) Gull, Taylor (Paige) Keys, Sarah (Reese) Dansie, Jacob (Kelli) Keys, Natalie (Kenneth) Keys, Craig (Desiree) Keys. As a grandfather (Papa), he loved his 17 grandchildren wholeheartedly and spent countless weeks visiting Connecticut, California, and Wisconsin to create lasting memories and patiently teach them life’s valuable lessons. He will forever be known as the “best Papa ever” in their eyes.

Trent Schwarzenberger Keys will be remembered for his kind heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering dedication to making the world brighter and more joyful. He touched many lives and will be dearly missed by family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will forever be our Dad, our Papa, our Cowboy and our Santa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Glenice Keys, brother, Wayne Keys, sister, Shirley Luscher, and nephew, Rick Keys. He is survived by his six children, spouses and 17 grandchildren.
Our family wishes to extend our gratitude to those who loved and took care of our Dad and dearly loved Papa at Huntsman Cancer Institute and Sandy Health and Rehabilitation.

A celebration of Trent's life will be held on January 4 at Hidden Valley 3rd Ward, 11755 South 2000 East, Sandy Utah at 10:30 am MST. There will be a viewing on Wednesday, January 3rd, from 6-8 pm and on January 4th at 9:30 am at the same location. The funeral service will be broadcast from YouTube Live at www.youtube.com/@hv3ward345 10:30 am MST January 4, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Huntsman Cancer Institute in Trent's honor. Huntsman Cancer Institute