Donald “Don” Keith passed away in the arms of his family on the evening of April 16, 2025 at his home in Decatur, IL.

Don was born on February 5, 1930, in Fulton, Missouri, son of Albert and Blanche. From 1950 to 1954, he enlisted in the Air Force and served in Tripoli, North Africa during the Korean War. Don married Elizabeth “Liddy” on June 23, 1959. They were married 61 years until her death in 2020.

Don loved God, his family, his work, running, and sailing. He enjoyed staying active, particularly through running. During his service in Tripoli, he discovered a fondness for sailing. He rediscovered his passion for sailing later in life at the Commodore Decatur Yacht Club. Well into old age, Don and Liddy took drives to the club and sat on the bench overlooking Lake Decatur to watch people sailing, then detoured home through the countryside. Don had a fascination for farming and wind turbines, particularly through the knowledge acquired from his role, selling equipment at Lakeland Engineering Equipment Company and Bodine Electric. Don enjoyed sharing these parts of his life with his children and grandchildren, chatting about stories of his hobbies and interests, and taking them on drives of his Decatur history during visits.

Don also earned his bachelor’s degree and MBA from Sangamon State University while working full time and raising a family. His annual birthday wisdom to his children was, “Be happy and don’t spend more than you make”!

Surviving are children, Bruce (Kate) of Somers, NY, James (Julie) of Maroa, IL, and John (Tracy) of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Barbara (Cameron), Mary, Mallory (Ben); Abaigeal (Cameron), Tyler (James), Kelsey, and great granddaughter, Iva Jo.

Don was preceded in death by wife, Liddy; parents, Albert and Blanche; and brother, Eddie.

The family would like to thank the amazing aids at Synergy and the team from Memorial Hospice who helped the family care for Don in his home.

Memorial services will be held by the family at a later date, with burial in Maroa Cemetery.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution in Don’s memory, please donate to Catholic Charities Macon County Meals on Wheels or Central Illinois Christians in Mission.