William W. Keck

1947 - 2026

William W. Keck, 78, of Davenport, passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at The Summit in Coralville.

Bill lived each day with the drive and ambition that would catapult him to the top of his field. Along the way he worked with a series of mentors from a barber in Decorah to international Intercoifure salon owners and stylists.

Bill graduated from Decorah High School before entering the Navy in 1966. His military service set in motion a series of events that would impact his life until his last days. As he waited at a Des Moines train station with nothing but the shirt on his back, he met Dallas McCleary. Dallas quickly assessed Bill's height (6'2") and sidled next to him for protection. What actually happened was they protected each other and became life-long friends. Their military odyssey took them from California to two tours in Vietnam and home again. He became a lifetime member of Kewanee VFW 8078. Two days before Bill's passing Dallas took him to a local casino for one last visit with lady luck.



After his service in Vietnam, he met a fellow veteran who was planning on going to barber college, so he went too. This began his career in the hair business. His first salon was Miller's Manner where he learned the art of dealing with people and providing good service. His partner Bob Miller was an inspiration and the two built one of the most popular salons in the Quad Cities. The dream of owning a day spa began in the early 80s and through each phase of the salon's growth his vision became clear. Years later, he opened Cutter's Loft, which led him to work in television and films. He made frequent appearances on "Paula Sands Live" for consultations and make-over episodes. He also worked with celebrities like Brooke Shields, Billy Ray Cyrus (Miley's dad), and many others. He is credited as the make-up artist for his work with an Italian film company, Duea Film, including, Bix (1991) and An American Love (1992). In 2002, he realized his dream of building William Wesley Grand Salon and Spa to offer the best in hair care and spa services.

Bill was an avid athlete who never turned down a chance to golf. He earned a 25 year Bix 7 pin for running the race every summer. He could tell you, down to the second, the time of each race finish. He loved to ski, ice skate, and sled - he was up for all winter sports.

Survivors include his son, Noah (Morgan) Keck; daughters, Lana (Matt) Thoene, and Jillian (Adam) Looman; grandchildren: William (Bill's namesake), Gabe, Kaden, Cash, Ace, Stella, and Ivy; and a sister, Linda (Dennis) DeBuhr. He is preceded in death by his parents, Wes and Odella Keck; and his sisters, Jan (Richard) Helgeson and Marlene Ottesen.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the former home of William Wesley Grand Salon and Spa (currently Coram Deo Ministry) at 5450 Corporate Park Dr, Davenport, IA 52807 on May 2nd from 3 to 6 p.m. with service and special family remarks at 5 p.m. A graveside service with military honors will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at the Lutheran Cemetery in Decorah, Iowa. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family please visit Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website at www.gayandciha.com. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the VFW in Decorah, Iowa, www.winneshiekvetsmemorial.org/vfw---post-1977.html. We invite anyone who has a story, memory, or photo of Dad to please share it with our family at williamkecklegacy@gmail.com.