Keith Alan Behlke (73) passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Born February 2nd, 1951, the son of Vernon E. Behlke Sr. and Marion E. Muchow in Hazel Green, Wisconsin. Keith lived his young life in Galena, IL. with his three siblings Butch, Barb, and Lynn.

Keith graduated from Galena High School in 1969 and went on to attend Highland Community College to play basketball. Keith then pursued an apprenticeship with the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 23, which led him to his career at Mechanical in Freeport, IL.

Keith had a true love for sports. He was a tried and true fan of the Green Bay Packers, Cubs, and Iowa Hawkeyes. Growing up he excelled in both football and basketball. He continued his love for sports and competition by playing men's fast-pitch softball as well as coaching many teams. Aside from sports, his true love was for his family and his grandson Grayson. His grandson brought him endless joy.

Keith was generous, loyal, and brave. All of the heart he shared will be remembered by his friends and family. He truly loved each of them-if you knew him, you knew it.

He is survived by his daughter LayCee (Lee ) Lightfoot, grandson Grayson Lightfoot; his siblings, Butch Behlke, Barb (Jim) Korte, and Lynn (Darell) Puls. He was a wonderful father, brother, uncle, friend, and most of all the proudest grandpa ever. Preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Behlke Sr., Marion Muchow, and step-father Kenneth Muchow Sr.

Memorial Services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 24th, 2024, at Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd. Freeport, IL. 61032. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. There will be a Celebration of Life Gathering at Mort's Bar and Grill in Freeport, IL. following the services, where we will toast Keith per his request. Friends and family are encouraged to wear jerseys or sports attire of their favorite teams. GO-PACK-GO