Larry E. Keel

Herrin- Larry E. Keel, 71, of Herrin, passed away at 5:35 PM, Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at Herrin Hospital. Larry was born on January 14, 1941 in DuQuoin to Paul and Dorothy (Guinn) Keel. He married Evelyn Pearl Meadows on January 22, 1966 at Herrin First United Methodist Church. She survives of Herrin. Larry served his country bravely while enlisted in the United States Army. Once honorably discharged, he worked 21 years as a coal miner for Old Ben #26. After he retired from coal mining, Larry began another twenty year career when he opened Keels Torginal Flooring. He was an accomplished fisherman who competed in and won various fishing tournaments. He was a member of the Fin and Feather Club in Freeman Spur and the Heartland Bass Club. He enjoyed playing cards with his buddies, dancing with his wife, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was also a member of Herrin Prairie Masonic Lodge in Herrin and a life member of the Herrin Elks. Survivors include- Wife- Evelyn Keel of Herrin Son- Troy Keel and wife Kathy of Herrin Son- Chad Keel and wife Jeanette of Herrin Grandchildren: Wade, Whitney and Karley Keel Megan and Chad Johnson Sister- Melodie (Keel) Church and husband Jeff of Carterville Sister in law- Pat Magnotti of Phoenix, AZ Brother in law- Bruce Meadows and wife Sandra of St. Louis, MO Several special nieces and nephews including: Teri Magnotti, Wendy Hatfield, Carmen Banks, Colby Church and Courtney Dunning Several cousins He was preceded in death by his parents, brother- Bill Keel, brother in law- Doug Magnotti and father in law and mother in law- Homer and Betty Meadows. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 24, 2012 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Rev. Don Colson will officiate. Burial will follow at Egyptian Memorial Gardens and military rites will be performed at graveside by the Herrin VFW and American Legion Posts with assistance from the Illinois National Guard. Visitation will be from 5-9:00 PM, Friday, November 23, 2012 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Masonic Rites by Herrins Prairie Lodge #693 will begin at 6:30 PM, Friday at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to the Fin and Feather Club (Charity Fund) and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St/ Herrin, IL 62948.