Ralph W. Keil Jr.

October 7, 1942 - April 27, 2022

Ralph “Sparky” W. Keil Jr., age 79, of Paxton, passed away on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at his home. He was born on October 7, 1942, in New Jersey, the son of Ralph W. Keil Sr. and Bessie (Healy) Keil. Ralph married Barbara Holloway on September 29, 1990 in Paxton. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Keil of Paxton; a son, Chad (Tracy) Keil of Paxton; a step-son, Mason (Mahvish) Greene of Texas; a granddaughter, Kayla (Kyle) Cress of Missouri; a sister, Sandy (Jim) Schuster of Pittsburgh, PA; and extended family, the Tavenners. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ralph served in the United States Air Force from 1963 until his retirement in 1986. During his time in the military, he served and traveled to many places including Vietnam, Greece, Japan, and Korea. Ralph retired as an E7 Master Sergeant and was proud to serve his country. Ralph enjoyed boating and camping, especially at Lake Shelbyville. He was a “Mr. Fix It” and would be able to fix anything and everything. Ralph enjoyed country and oldies music and loved being with his wife and family. Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Honor Flight (www.honorflight.org).