Published on September 17, 2026 11:05 am
Last Updated on September 17, 2026 11:05 am
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Keith David Rentfro, 75, of Stewardson, Illinois, passed away on September 14, 2026, in Effingham, as the result of an automobile accident.
He was born on February 24, 1951, in Effingham, the son of Dwight and Ruby (Worley) Rentfro. Keith spent his life rooted in the Stewardson area, where he built a life centered on hard work, family, and community. He was a 1969 graduate of Stewardson-Strasburg High School and carried the values of that upbringing with him throughout his life. Keith farmed his entire life in the Stewardson area and was also employed at Tates Farm Equipment for more than 50 years. He was known for his steady work ethic, his practical knowledge, and his willingness to lend a hand whenever it was needed. On February 27, 1972, Keith married Kathy Jo Garner, and they shared 39 years of marriage until her passing in 2011. Their marriage was blessed with a large and loving family, and Keith treasured the life they built together. He carried Kathy’s memory with him always and honored their years together through the devotion he showed to their children and grandchildren. Keith found great joy in traveling the country on his Gold Wing motorcycle and was a member of the Gold Wing Motorcycle Club. He also enjoyed restoring tractors, especially Oliver Tractors, and took special pride in converting regular tractors into mini versions. These hobbies reflected his creativity, patience, and appreciation for craftsmanship. He enjoyed working with his hands and took satisfaction in bringing new life to old machinery. Above all else, Keith treasured being present in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He attended all of his grandchildren’s events and made it a priority to be there for the moments that mattered most. Sunday morning breakfast with the twins, whether at Niemerg’s or Honey Bee Cafe, was among his most cherished routines. Those gatherings were a source of joy and connection, and they became treasured memories for his family.
Keith leaves behind his children, Jason (Tena) Rentfro of Mode, Michael (Jessie) Rentfro of Terre Haute, Indiana, Tim (Kelsey) Rentfro of Mattoon, Anita Rentfro of Stewardson, Tenille (David Purcell) Rentfro of Windsor, and Tahnee (Joseph) Florida of Altamont. He is also survived by many grandchildren, five great-grandchildren with one more on the way, his siblings Dean (Karen) Rentfro of Strasburg, Diane Boyer of Strasburg, and Greg Rentfro of Stewardson, his in-laws Mike (Carol) Walters of Charleston, Ernie (Julie Garner) of Shreveport, Louisiana, Mark Garner of Charleston, and Tony (Janna) Warner of Charleston, as well as his special friend Barb Vonderheide of Stewardson and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother-in-law Dave Boyer.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Brummerstedt Funeral Home in Stewardson followed by a private family burial in Stewardson Cemetery. Memorials in Keith’s honor may be made to the RMHC, Ronald McDonald House of Central Illinois, and may be mailed to 302 W. Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.