Keith Don Meier

Keith Meier, 80, of Ridott, passed away the evening of July 7, 2026.

Keith was born May 21, 1946, in Freeport, to Arthur and Ruby (Schleich) Meier. He grew up on the family farm in Ridott, and graduated from Freeport High School in 1964.

After high school he continued to work on the farm and enlisted in the Illinois National Guard in 1965, serving six years, earning marksman and sharpshooter bars.

On May 18, 1969, he married Linda Kahly, at Bethany United Church of Christ in Freeport. They lived on the family farm and had four daughters. In early years he was active in Stephenson County Young Farmers and Farm Bureau.

He served as a Lancaster Township Trustee and a Pioneer Seed Sales Representative. Additionally, he served as a Stephenson Service Company Board Member for 40 years, which included roles as Treasurer and Board President. He took his position in leadership roles very seriously and thoroughly enjoyed meeting and talking with all the people that make the organization work.

He was a talented mechanic that had a fix for everything, which did not come without comments about where the engineer’s design was lacking. He loved all things mechanical, but he especially loved his John Deere tractors and his green 1968 GTO.

Most of all Keith loved spending time with his family and friends. He could carry on a conversation with anyone, always offering advice and a genuine desire to help, in his own quiet way. He was a man that focused on what is important in life, his family, faith, and faith in others.

Keith is survived by his wife, Linda of Ridott. Daughters Kimberly of Ridott; Kristie (Nate) Breunig of Cross Plains, WI; Karrie (Eric) Ross of Peoria; Kelli (Jake Myers) of Rockford; and Granddaughter Maddie Breunig of Cross Plains, WI. Siblings Leon Meier, Glen Meier, and Idamae Meier all of Ridott. As well as many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, July 14, 5:00-8:00pm at Winneshiek Evangelical Free Church, Freeport. Funeral Services to be held Wednesday, July 15, 11:00am at Winneshiek Evangelical Free Church with a visitation prior to at 10:00am until time of service.

Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens and a memorial will be established in his name.