Raymond F. Keegan, Jr.

Raymond F. Keegan, Jr., a husband, father, and a proud veteran, passed peacefully in his sleep on May 13, 2025, in Prophetstown, Illinois. Born on January 23, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Ray's life was marked by dedication to service, family, and his passions.

Ray served in the United States Marine Corps from 1951 to 1953, spending much of his duty stationed overseas in Korea with the Marine Observation Squadron (VMO-6). His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of pride, though he spoke seldom about the experiences that profoundly shaped him during the Korean War.

Following his honorable discharge, Ray embarked on a successful career with the Jewel Tea Company, where he ascended through various roles of increasing responsibility. His commitment and hard work eventually led him to retire as HR Director. In 1975, he realized a long-held dream by opening his own business, the Fireside Roll-Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, which, at that time, was the largest skating rink in the world, operating until 1985.

Ray's educational journey began at Lane Tech High School, followed by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Lake Forest College. His love for learning was matched only by his interests outside of work. Ray was an automobile enthusiast, frequently attending local car shows to showcase his latest British sports car. Furthermore, he had a lifelong passion for model railroading, which saw him create an impressive collection of locomotives and freight cars that filled his garage with a sprawling layout.

Many fond memories for Ray were created amidst family vacations in North Wisconsin and trips across the eastern United States to visit his parents in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He shared his life with his wife, Nancy L. Campbell, to whom he was married for the past two years. Ray is also survived by his son, Lincoln Scott Keegan (Carla), and several step-children: James Rice (Monica), Cindy Lancette (Chris), and Michael Shultz, along with multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought joy to his life.

Ray was predeceased by his father, Raymond Frank Keegan, Sr.; mother, Lucille C. Geyer; first wife, Barbara H. Keegan; second wife, Lorri D. Keegan; and daughter, Lorri Lynn Nastala.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Veterans Administration located in Galesburg, Illinois, and Iowa City, Iowa, as well as Winning Wheels Nursing Home, Beacon of Hope Hospice, and Compassas Hospice, alongside neighbors Brenda and Dave Weinberg, and other caregivers who provided unwavering support to Ray in his twilight years.

Raymond F. Keegan, Jr. will be remembered not just for his accomplishments but for his warm spirit, his dedication to those he loved, and the legacy of service he leaves behind. He will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Please offer your condolences and expressions of sympathy to the family on his Memory Page at mvcremation.com.