Keith D. Embry

Keith D. Embry, born May 10, 1958, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Harold Delmar and Mary Louise (Pickering) Embry, passed away on June 16, 2024, at his home in Rock Island, Illinois. He departed this world as a warrior, having courageously battled Multiple System Atrophy for more than a decade.

Services will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 4:00 PM. Visitation will be from 2 - 4 PM before the service at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline, IL. Burial will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family for a fund to be established for MSA research.

Keith was the beloved husband of Gretchen (Rodemeyer) Embry. Their love story began in Moline, Illinois, where they were united in marriage on June 29, 1996. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and family. He was a devoted father to Barret Embry of Suffolk, Virginia; Alexis Holtzer of Denver, Colorado; and Nicholas Embry of Bloomington, Illinois. His role as a grandfather to Harrison Embry was one he cherished deeply.

He was a brother to many, offering his love and support to Gene (Alma) Embry of Bloomington, Illinois; Chris (Dave) Dunkin; Tom (Brenda) Ryan of Hudson, Illinois; Jessee (Deanine) Mattocks of Balsam Lake, Wisconsin; Lisa Weaver of Normal, Illinois; Lori Okreglicki of Normal, Illinois; and Danny (Kim) Mattocks of Bloomington, Illinois. His life was enriched by the presence of countless nieces and nephews whom he adored. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Mary Mattocks, and his brother, Tim Ryan.

Keith's early years were spent in the classrooms of Bloomington public schools, where he forged lifelong friendships and developed a strong work ethic. He built a successful career, retiring in 2015 from Johnson Contracting. Keith's hands were rarely still as a skilled painter, paper hanger, and drywall finisher. His passion for teaching others led him to become an apprenticeship instructor for Locals 502/676, where he shared his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of tradespeople.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Keith was an avid enthusiast of building and racing his prized 1984 Chevy S10, among other cars. His love for the thrill of the race was matched only by his passion for fishing, where he found peace and solace by the water. Keith was a pillar of strength and support, always ready to lend a hand to family and friends in need. His home was a place of warmth and welcome due to his cherished pets: his dog Scooby, his parrot Stuart, and his fond memories of former dogs Dori and Maisie.

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice for their care and support, especially Maggie, Denelle, and Sarah H., his care team for over a year. We are grateful for the wonderful caregivers Claudia, Sofia, Mayra, Kayla, Tim, and Maegan. We especially want to thank caregivers Abe and Penny, who went above and beyond, enhanced the quality of Keith's life immeasurably, endured much, and, in the end, became family.

Online condolences can be made at https://www.wendtfuneralhome.com/.