John Leonard Keys

John Leonard Keys, 76, of Metamora, IL, passed away at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

He was born on July 4, 1946, in Metamora, IL, to Marvin and Lois (Snyder) Keys. He married Linda Lelm on June 12, 1966 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Peoria, IL.

Surviving are his wife, Linda of Metamora; son, Brian (Teresa) Keys of Wheaton, IL and their children, daughter, Emily Keys of Wheaton, IL and son, John Keys of Columbus, IN; son, Brent Keys of Metamora; and daughter, Sheila (Chris) Strehlow of Metamora and their daughters, Ashley Strehlow and Kayla Strehlow of Metamora. He was preceded in death by his parents.

John graduated from Eureka College in 1968 and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Bio-Chemistry. He worked at Hiram Walker from 1968 until 1981. He then worked for ADM from 1982 until his retirement in June of 2008.

He was an active member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington where he served on the Church Council. He was also a member of Mason of Taylor Lodge No. 98 in Washington and a life member of Scottish Rite. He previously was a Scout Master of Troop 64. John enjoyed camping, traveling, hunting, boating with his family and later in life he enjoyed woodworking of models.

John was a proud father of three children and four grandchildren and will be fondly remembered for being a great and supportive husband, dad, and grandpa.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church with Pastor Scott Bacon and Pastor Dick Hanson officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until service time, also on Saturday at the church. A luncheon will follow John’s service at the church. Private burial of ashes will be held in Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 200 South Main Street, Washington, IL 61571 or to Illinois Cancer Care, 8940 North Wood Sage Road, Peoria, IL 61615. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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