Richard Keyworth
Richard Keyworth
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Richard Keyworth Obituary
Rich began his career as a volunteer with the Itasca Fire Department. He later became a proud member of the Elk Grove Village Fire Department, serving over 30 years, retiring as a Lieutenant. He was a part time adjunct faculty member at Harper College for 42 years. Rich authored numerous articles for magazines, as well as his published book; Fires...Accidental or Arson.
Rich had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and took pride in sharing what he learned with others. He was well known in the Fire Service having taught many classes and seminars across the United States. Many lifelong friends were made through his teaching.
Rich strongly believed in helping others through volunteering and was a member of the Jaycees, Rotary and Lions Clubs as well as various Fire Service organizations.
He had a favorite quote: "Live each day as if it were your last, and someday it will be." He did just that! He had a larger-than-life persona and an outgoing personality to match his physical stature. You would always recognize him wearing his large belt buckle, cowboy hat and boots.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to be determined.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bagdonas John
December 18, 2024
Richard Rehner
December 9, 2024
Rich and I first met when I started my position with the Elk Grove Village Fire Department and he was an Apparatus Operator (A/O) and so much more. Rich was a mentor, teacher, confidant and great friend and we remained that way close to 50 years. He truly was "larger that life", a great story teller, joke teller and someone you could count on to always lift your spirits. In retirement, we'd meet every Friday for lunch, sometimes twice a week. I miss his booming voice, his contagious laugh and the awesome cowboy he was.,
John Bagdonas
March 18, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear about Richards passing. We were members of the DuPage Writers Group for many years. Richard wrote wonderful stories that he shared with our group and we were always amazed at his talent for telling a story. He was a great friend. I wish your family warm memories and peace.
Jo
February 7, 2023
Gail and Brian, May Dick rest in eternal peace. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. He was a great person, full of kindness and wit. Such a nice brother-in-law so many years ago. I know he will be greatly missed by many.
Kindest regards,
Jo
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Randy Sielig
February 3, 2023
I had the great pleasure of servicing the Lions Club with Rich as my Vice President when I was President, truly a man of his word and a great Mentor for sure, he always made an entrance when he walked into the room. God speed you Rich
Kent Hulett
February 3, 2023
I've known "Dicky" for many years. He worked with my father Chief Al Hulett in Elk Grove, who held Dickey in high regards. He was also active in carnival safety as one of his many interests and had a passion for public safety. I last saw him at Chief Chuck Henrici's funeral several years ago.
God speed Lieutenant.
Doug Kelder
February 1, 2023
Rich was a friend of almost 50 years. From instructor to investigator to Fire Lt. he excelled in any arena he entered.
You will be missed by members of the fire service as well as friends throughout the Midwest.
Doug Kelder, Deputy Fire Marshal Northbrook Fire Department.
Nanci L. Vanderweel
January 30, 2023
Rich was a big man with a heart to match. I go back a long way to a time I was on the village board and he was a firefighter. If I had a question he always had the answer. He in later years, both of us ended up in the same organization, Community Character Coalition.
I will miss him. My heart goes out to Gail.
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