John (Jack) Keck, age 80, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born in Morris, Illinois, in 1944, to Harold and Kathryn M. Keck.

A dedicated and hardworking man, John worked as a pressman/printer, taking pride in his craft and ensuring every page was just right, and always had a great eye for color. His strong work ethic provided a stable life for his six children, whom he always put first.

In 1965, he married his precious wife, the love of his life, Kathryn (Kathy), and together they built a beautiful life over 60 years of marriage. Their love was the foundation of their family, and nothing brought him more happiness than being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family gatherings were his favorite moments, filled with laughter, stories, and cherished memories. He was kind to everyone he met, always treating others with warmth and respect.

He was a devoted father to Kristina (Doug) Mathey, Jared (Kimberly) Keck, Karen (Lance) Webb, Jacob (Jackie) Keck, Jason (Amy) Keck, and Justin (Kim) Keck. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: John (Ciara) Mathey, Kayla (Chase) Harvey, Jordan (Jenna) Keck, Erika (Jeremy) Day, Jensen (Joey) Poelker, James, Jolie, Jillian, Jack, Kaitlynn, Jonah, and Jessica Keck. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Liam, Levi, and LeOra Mathey; Henry and Lacey Day; and Josie and June Keck.

He is preceded in death by his grandson, Jake Webb. He is survived by his siblings, Patricia (Tom) Knudson and Joseph (Irene) Keck, along with his nieces, Becky and Lisa, his nephew, Matthew, and their families.

Beyond his love for family, John had a passion for Indy Cars and Nascar, classic 1960s music, and his daily rituals, including reading the paper and working through crosswords with his black coffee. His deep faith in Jesus Christ, gentle strength, kind heart, and steadfast devotion to his family will be profoundly missed.

A celebration of his life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 303 S 7th St, DeKalb, IL 60115 on Saturday March 22, 2025, where friends and family will gather to honor and remember a truly wonderful man. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Fairview Park Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Vacation Bible School.