Kenneth F. Geiger

Kenneth "Papa" Geiger, age 71, of Ottawa, departed this earthly life Friday, February 23, 2024 in the presence of his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 12:30 p.m. Thursday, February 29th at St. Francis Church with Monsignor Mark Merdian celebrating. Interment will follow in St. Columba Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to Noon Thursday at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Kenny Geiger, Ryan Leifheit, Bryce Burress, Reily Leifheit, Curt Geiger and Jacob Cornwall. Honorary pallbearers will be, David Fowler and the OTHS Class of 1971.

Ken was born December 23, 1952 in Ottawa, Illinois, a son of George and Margaret (Frain) Geiger. Surviving are his former wife, Carol Geiger of Ottawa; his loving companion, Lois "Lowie" Drackley of Ottawa; devoted children, Jennifer (Ryan) Leifheit of Ottawa, Megan (Mike) Magana of Plainfield and Kenny (Elizabeth Kilter) Geiger of Tonica. Ken also leaves grandchildren, Lexi (Jacob Cornwall) Pries, Melana Pries, Bryce (Cianna Young) Burress, Reily Leifheit, Sydney, Sadey, Sarah, Selenah and Shelby Magana, Dylan Kilter and Charlee Geiger; and a sister, Sandy Reinmann of Ottawa. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter Sarah Geiger; brothers Bobby, Paul, George "Dutch" and Jerry Geiger; and sisters Nancy Anselme and Dorothy Stoudt.

Ken was a devout member of St. Francis Church and was very active in the Men's Club as well as being a member of the Knights of Columbus. He retired from Pipefitters Local 597. Ken was always a participant in anything that would take him outdoors. He enjoyed traveling, hunting and fishing, however, Ken's passion was attending his grandchildren's various activities and numerous sporting events, and cheering for the Chicago Bears. Ken was a kind man who was deeply devoted to his dear companion "Lowie," his children and to his grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as "Papa." He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Memorial contributions directed to PADS in Ottawa or to the Starved Rock Regional Center would be appreciated. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.gladfelter-roetker.com .

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