William Ernest Kite

1944 - 2021

William "Bill" Ernest Kite, 77, of Keokuk, died Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Bill was born July 1, 1944, in Keokuk, the son of John and Verna Derr Kite. He graduated from Keokuk High School.

Bill was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and proudly served his country for four years. Bill had been employed by Sheller- Globe/Henniges in Keokuk for 38 years, until his retirement in 2003. He attended Cornerstone Church in Keokuk.

Bill enjoyed riding horses and loved his animals. He was an avid NASCAR fan. He was a gifted woodworker and spent countless hours building things for his family and friends to enjoy. His greatest joy was spending time with his family.

He is survived by two sons, Chris (Joy) Kite and Joe (Darcy) Kite, all of Keokuk; two daughters Carrie (Brad) Fekete of Mooresville, N.C., and Amy (Pete) Benson of Argyle; 12 grandchildren, Jordyn (Austin) Boyer of Nauvoo, Ill., Logan Benson, Shelby Kite, Jake Kite, Abby Kite, Grace Kite, Jenna (Bryce) Rose, Josh (Jessie) Kite and Josie Kite, all of Keokuk, Karli, and Austin and Parker Fekete of Mooresville, N.C.; and two great-grandchildren, Sam Rose, and Eva Kite of Keokuk. He is also survived by his ex-wife, Kay Kite of Montrose, and longtime companion Mary Schneider of Griswold, Iowa. Other survivors include his sisters, Barb Barnes, Kathy Cole, Linda Mulholland, and June Batten, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father/stepmom John (Florence) Kite Sr.; his mother Verna White; stepdad Don White; his brother John Kite Jr.; sister Peggy Fellows; and infant brother, Gary White.

A memorial service will be at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 24 at Cornerstone Church, 928 Blondeau St., Keokuk.

Memorials may be made to KASPIR or PAW Animal Shelter.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com.