Phillip W. Keck, 80, of Ottumwa, died on October 16, 2022 at his home.
He was born January 27, 1942 in Wapello County to Harry and Thelma Baxter Keck. After graduating from Cardinal of Eldon High School in 1959, Phil served with the United States Air Force as a military policeman for 4 years. While stationed in Canada, Phil met Darlene Alice Thompson in Cold Lake, Alberta. Darlene was from Ottawa, Ontario. They were married on February 5, 1963.
Phil worked 30 years for John Deere Ottumwa Works and served as union chairman during a portion of his career. He enjoyed his family and friends and was a master card player. Phil was also a long-time Mason and member of the Olive Branch Masonic Lodge #21 A.F.&A.M. in Agency, IA, having achieved the rank of 32nd degree.
Surviving are his 3 sons, Thomas (Julie) Keck of Agency, Stephen (Lisa) Keck of Ottumwa and James (Rachelle) Keck of Urbandale; grandchildren, Megan Laban, Brian Keck, Dana Doll, Steffanie Swartz, Courtney Keck, Jenna Hunter, Kyle Keck, Jason Chambers, Austin Chambers, Alec Connor Keck, Cameron Keck, Clara Johnson and Grant Johnson; a dozen great-grandchildren; and his younger brother, Larry.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene, and his siblings, Phyllis, Beatrice and Terry.
His body has been cremated.
Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, October 21st at Reece Funeral Home.
Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 22nd, at Reece Funeral Home with Chaplain Doug McAntire officiating. Military honors will be conducted by Walter B. Schafer Post #775 Veterans of Foreign Wars and O.B. Nelson Post #3 American Legion.
Memorials may be made to the Indian Hills Community College Foundation.
