Dennis D. Keef Sr.

Born:  January 22, 1945 in Sycamore, Illinois
Transitioned: July 29th, 2026, in Dekalb,  Illinois

Dennis D. Keef Sr. 81 passed away July 29th, 2026, at his family home in Dekalb Illinois.

He was born one of 9 siblings to Harley and Garnett (Walters) Keef. Dennis married Damaris Rachel (Byars) on June 17th, 1989

Dennis was a graduate of Genoa-Kingston High School. He retired from Greenlee Textron in Genoa after 39 years of service.  He was also privileged to serve 8 years at the Dekalb County courthouse as a bailiff after retirement.

He was preceded in passing by both of his parents Harley/Garnett Keef, and siblings Harley, Nancy, Carl, Randy, and Eugene.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Damaris, his children Doug/Michelle Swanson, Brian/Amy Swanson, Kris/Bill west, Timothy/Chris Valentine, Brandi Lamb, Steven Valentine, Dennis Keef Jr, and Rachel/Brian Phillips; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Siblings Sandra Baumgartner, Gary/Sharon Keef, and Melvin Keef.

Dennis and Damaris best friends were his nephew and niece Michael/Beverly Keef in whom he truly loved and cherished. Together they have accrued innumerable adventures. He was also survived by numerous other family members and dear friends (more than can be listed here) in whom he loved.

Dennis loved his family and his church family deeply. He was also highly active in his local community as an elder at Cathedral of Praise, in Dekalb.  He loved to laugh and enjoyed his life and family to the fullest. He will be dearly missed. Our prayer is that you will all get to see him again in Glory with Jesus.

His Celebration of Life visitation will be at the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL. on Sunday, August 2nd from 4:00-6:00 PM with a Memorial Service beginning at 5:00 PM.

Memorials to honor Dennis D. Keef Sr. can be made to his family in care of the Butala Funeral Home in Sycamore.

To sign the online guest book or share a memory, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com