James F. Keigher, 95, of Gilman passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023 at Faith Place in Danforth. He was born on June 4, 1927 in Manteno, a son of Raymond and Kathryn (Haley) Keigher. James married Mary Jane O’Connor in Symerton on September 15, 1951 and she preceded him in death on December 21, 2020.
He is survived by ten children, Leo (Debbie) Keigher of Minooka, Dick (Lorene) Keigher of Danforth, Don Keigher of Gilman, Bob (Candy) Keigher of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Ann (Tim) Kulow of Paxton, Cliff (Michele) Keigher of Onarga, Ray Keigher of Champaign, Kay (Ron) Vinson of Manhattan, Margie Woolridge of Huntsville, Alabama, and Jay (Maureen) Keigher of Melvin; 29 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ed Keigher of Wilmington and David (Ann) Keigher of Bourbonnais; one sister, Judy (Dan) Robbins of Wilmington; two sisters-in-law, Angela O’Connor of Moline and Theresa O’Connor of Wilmington; and several nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Winnie Boudreau, Diane Phillips, Jean Keigher, and Jane Keigher; two brothers, Ray Keigher and Jerry Keigher; and two brothers-in-law, Ed O’Connor and Jerry O’Connor.
James was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gilman. Jim's early farming career began near Manteno, Illinois in the late 40s. In the early 60s, he moved to Webster City, Iowa, where he farmed with his brother, Jerry, of Vincent, for many years. In 1977, he moved back to Central Illinois, where he continued farming in the Onarga and Gilman areas. James served in the United States Navy during World War II. He loved to travel and listen to music, especially Irish and Country. James was a nature enthusiast and enjoyed walking in the timber. He especially loved when the family would get together.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at the Knapp-Redenius Funeral Home in Gilman. Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Gilman with Fr. Marek Herbut officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Gilman.
Memorials may be made to God’s Food Pantry, St. Mary’s Cemetery, or Donor’s Choice.
