Kevin D. Rench

Kevin D. Rench of O'Fallon, IL, departed this life peacefully at his residence on June 17, 2025, at 10:40 p.m. He had attained the age of 71 years, 3 months and 21 days.

Born on February 27, 1954, in Alton, IL, the son of Thomas and Earlene (nee Wilkins) Rench. He was united in marriage to Rebecca Wintjen at Grace United Methodist Church in Nashville, IL on June 23, 1979, and she preceded his death on July 5, 2023. They shared 44 years of marriage filled with laughter and love until her passing in 2023. He missed her every single day, but they're now back together dancing to their 70's music, just like they used to.

Kevin was a 1972 graduate of Roxana High School and received his bachelor's degree in special education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 1975 and his master's degree in education administration and Supervision in 1977.

When he was in high school, he volunteered as a teacher's assistant in a Special Education Cross-Categorical resource room. This rewarding experience changed the trajectory of his life and ignited his goal of becoming an educator. He began his teaching career at Bond County Unit #2 and went on to serve at Harrisburg Unit #3, Hazelwood West Junior-Senior High School, and Wesclin High School. In 1981, Kevin joined the Kaskaskia Special Education District #801 (KSED) in Centralia, IL, first as a Teacher Coordinator, later becoming the Director Designee, and then as Director from 1993 until his retirement in 2009. During this time, he took pride in the level of special education services that were provided to the students in Clinton, Marion, and Washington Counties. Kevin, along with many administrators, saw the growing need for a therapeutic education center to serve students with behavioral, emotional, and developmental disorders. With a desire to make an educational impact on these students, Bronson Education Center (now Bridges Learning Center) was started in 1999. Kevin also served on the Nashville District #49 School Board for 12 years and was accepted into the Illinois Association of School Boards Leadership Academy during this time. He also served one term on the Nashville High School District #99 School Board. His leadership on the boards helped strengthen district policies and enhance student learning.

After retirement, Kevin continued serving the community as a consultant for KSED #801 and then Centralia High School Annex until 2022. His decades of experience and wealth of knowledge were key contributors to the development of the Annex which houses students from group homes and the Kaskaskia Education Center that provides specialized education and services to students with severe and profound disabilities.

But the role Kevin cherished most was being a dad. From cheer competitions and school dances to late-night pep talks and perfectly timed dad jokes, he was the ultimate "girl dad." He showed up for everything-and with opinions, of course. His sense of humor, quick wit, and generous heart made him the kind of dad everyone wanted around. His commitment to his family showed through in every way. In the days leading up to his passing, he was surrounded by family and friends where he was cracking jokes, offering wisdom, and still making everyone laugh through the tears. Kevin left this world with the same style, grit, and good humor that defined his life. His family and friends take solace knowing he is now reunited with his wife Rebecca, whom he loved dearly.

Left to mourn his passing is his beloved daughter Elyse Rench of O'Fallon, IL; his mother, Earlene Rench of Alton, IL; brother, Mark (Diane) Rench of Brighton, IL and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Kevin was preceded in death by his best friend and cherished wife Rebecca, his sister, Karen Rench, his father Thomas Rench, father-in-law, Bill Wintjen and mother-in-law, Patsy Wintjen and his great niece, Mabel Grace Rench.

Per the wishes of Kevin and his family, cremation will be performed, and a private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Masonic Cemetery in Nashville, IL.

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois or the Masonic Cemetery and will be accepted by Campagna Funeral Home.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.campagnafuneralhomes.com.

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