L Keith Appel

Forreston, IL, L. Keith Appel, age 69, passed away Tuesday July 11, 2017 in his home. Keith was born December 6, 1947 in Freeport, IL the son of Leonard H. & Edna M. (Albright) Appel. Keith graduated from Mt. Morris High School class of 1965. Keith was drafted into the US Army in December of 1967. He was part of the 82nd Airborne Division and served on a mobile artillery unit in the Vietnam War. He earned several medals, including the National Defense Service, Army Commendation, Vietnam Campaign, and Vietnam Service with 4 bronze service stars that signify his participation in 4 of the 17 designated campaigns of the Vietnam War. His patriotism he learned in the Army never left him as friends and family will attest. Keith was a life long member of the VFW Post 8739. He was also an active member and supporter of the NRA, the Illinois State Rifle Association, and Ogle County Farm Bureau. Upon his return from the service, he assisted his father in the family farm operation until the 1980s. After getting out of active farming, Keith did trucking and worked at a farm store. Keith retired in 2010 after 16 years with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources at Castle Rock State Park and Lowden Miller State Forest. Keith was a loving and kind-hearted man who loved spending time with family and close friends. He always enjoyed a good story and a good laugh. He took pleasure in carpentry projects, target shooting, hunting, and fishing. Keith will lovingly be remembered by his children Brianne (Bryan) Tallyn, Jason (Jennifer) Appel; stepchildren Steve (Brenna) Francisko, and Jenny Lee. Keith will also be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren, Keeana and Kaden Lee, Dylan Francisko, Brooklyn Tallyn, and Vivian Appel with two little ones on the way, former spouse and friend, Kathryn Appel. Preceded in death by parents Leonard and Edna Appel; as well as his brother as a newborn, Adon Appel. Funeral Service will be Monday July 17, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. in Finch Funeral Home, 405 East Hitt, Mt. Morris, IL, with Rev. Frank Lay officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Mt. Morris, IL. Visitation will be Sunday July 16, 2017 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. in Finch Funeral Home. Those who so desire may make memorial donations in memory of Keith to the VFW Post 8739.