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Shelby J. Kaehler
1938 - 2025
BORN
1938
DIED
2025
Shelby Kaehler Obituary
Born: September 2, 1938
Died: September 8, 2025
Shelby J. Kaehler, 87 of Rock Falls died Monday September 8, 2025 at her home.
She was born on September 2, 1938 in Deer Grove, the daughter of Russell and Ruby (Waltz) Near. She married Alfred James Kaehler on April 6, 1957 in Rock Falls. He died July 5, 2005. Shelby had worked as a hostess in the restaurant industry in the area having worked at the former Emerald Hill, Rags to Riches and Klocke's all in Sterling. She was a long time member and volunteer at Harvest Time Bible Church. Shelby and her late husband were foster parents to over 105 children for over 20 years.
Survivors include her daughters: Debbie Kaehler of Rock Falls, Cindy (Sean) Scheelk of Port Richie, FL., Kim Gilley Rock Falls and Terry (Cindy) Kaehler of Rock Falls; 14 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; six brothers; four sisters; daughter Linda Taylor; and step son Phil Kaehler.
Visitation will be Thursday September 11, 2025 from 10 AM – Noon at Harvest Time Bible Church. The funeral will follow at Noon with the Reverend Jason Borton and the Reverend Dalmus Meeks co officiating. Burial will conclude at Oak Knoll Memorial Park.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shelby Kaehler
3 Entries
Debbie Waltz
September 10, 2025
So sorry for your loss and that I can not be there with you at this time. Shelby was always a favorite to spend time with as we grew up.
Pam Near Milton
September 10, 2025
Aunt Shelby was one of a kind! She was always there for all of us kids no matter how old or young we were! You may be gone Aunt Shelby, but you will never be forgotten! RIP I love you!
Jahlen Bell
September 9, 2025
Oh shelby shell, i love you with all my heart.
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