Keith O'Connell

Keith O'Connell, 82, of Rockford went to be with our heavenly Father Wednesday, February 17, 2016, at home, surrounded by his family. Born November 19, 1933, in Rockford, the son of Leo and Ethel (Aska) O'Connell. Veteran of the Korea Conflict, serving in the U.S. Army. Married Joyce Evelyn Pooley and on February 25, they were to celebrate their 60th anniversary. Employed as a tool design engineer for many years by White Sundstrand. Keith later retired from W.A. Whitney. Member of Third Presbyterian Church. Some of the favorite times in his life were time with family in Door County, WI., and the Rocky Mountains of CO. He was a gifted carpenter. Keith will be remembered as a man and father with unending generosity, unexpected wit and humor. Survivors include his wife, Joyce; children, Brian (Wendy) O’Connell, David (Traci) O’Connell and Vicki (Dave) Minnick; loving grandchildren, Patrick, Dana, Danielle, Kelli and Brennan; 7 great-grandchildren; and his close cousin, Jim Reed. Predeceased by his parents; and sister, Janice Koepke. The family wishes to thank Heartland Hospice, especially Emily and Becky. Dad leaves behind a lifetime of treasured memories.

Service at 11 a.m. Monday, February 22, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park, with visitation from 10 a.m. to service time. Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery, Creston.