Keith E. Reddig

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Keith E. Reddig, who peacefully left this world on September 27, 2024, at Park Vista in East Moline, IL, surrounded by his loving family. Keith was born on December 8, 1933, in Rock Island, Illinois, to the late LeRoy and Irene (Schmook) Reddig.

Keith served his country with honor and distinction from March 1954 to September 1958. While stationed in Germany, he had the unique privilege of training none other than Elvis Presley. His dedication and commitment to his nation were reflected in his service.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy and Irene Reddig; his first wife Carol (Thompson) Reddig (mother of their daughter Sandy); his second wife, Barbara (Possin) Reddig (mother of their son Jeffrey); his brother, Robert Reddig; his son-in-law, Mark Sides; his sister-in-law Alice Reddig; and his brothers-in-law, Roger Staley and Dennis Staley.

On April 29, 1967, Keith married, Peggy (Staley) Reddig. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Keith is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy, and their children: Michelle Sides, and Raymond (Beth) Reddig. Sandy (James) Downey, Jeffrey (Aran) Reddig, His legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren: Kristi Harden, Jennifer (Al) Vermast, Jesse (Jessie) Downey, Jena (Marlon) Avea, Zackary Prescott, Jeremy Prescott, Mark (Kristina) Sides Jr., Michael Sides, Amy Sides-Demers, Ricki Sides, and Ashton Reddig; and twenty-two great-grandchildren: Levi Harden, Hunter Harden, Kameron Harden, Gavin Harden, Lawrence Vermast, Allan Vermast, Mackenzie Vermast, Tiago Avea, Hayleigh Prescott, Miyah Prescott, Daxton Prescott, Jordan Prescott, Jacobie Prescott, Joey Sides, Isabella Sides, Jakob Sides, Levi Sides, Delilah Sides, Faith Olson, Kyden Demers, Zander Demers, and Evalee Demers.

Keith spent his career working at John Deere Plow & Planter Works, where he retired on February 28, 1987. Post-retirement, he embraced his passions and hobbies. Keith loved to fish and was an avid NASCAR fan, with Dale Earnhardt Sr. being his favorite driver. One of his most treasured memories was attending the Brickyard 400 race in 2000 with his son, Jeff — an event that marked Dale Earnhardt's last race at the Brickyard.

Family was at the center of Keith's life, and he cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His warmth, wisdom, and love touched everyone who knew him.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00pm Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at Schroder Mortuary in Colona with visitation 2 hours prior to service time. Burial will follow at Dayton Corners Cemtery in Colona. Memorials may be made to the Colona Legion Post 1233 Honor Guard. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Keith's hospice nurse, Kathy, and the dedicated team at Compassus for their compassionate care during his final days. 

The loss of Keith E. Reddig is deeply felt by his family and the many friends he made throughout his life.

His legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Rest in peace, Keith. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved you.