David McKee Jr.

On April 22, 2026, the world lost a true gem, a man who could make a fishing rod dance and could disassemble a machine blindfolded. David P. McKee Jr., born on July 5, 1942, in Chicago, IL, and a long-time resident of Shirland and Pecatonica, Illinois, was a loving, funny, supportive, and thoughtful soul who touched everyone's life with his wit and love. Even after retiring from his prolific career in machine repair, he never stopped tinkering, whether it was with gadgets in his workshop or the hearts of his loved ones.

David was a man who wore many hats: a machinist, a volunteer firefighter with the Shirland Fire Department for a whopping 25 years, and a proud member of the Eugene J. Barloga Pecatonica American Legion Post #197. If there was ever a contest for the most versatile person, David would have won hands down. He loved to fish, hunt, and in his free time, he could be found sharing stories of his adventures, all of which were sprinkled with his unique sense of humor that left everyone in splits.

David's family was his world, and his world revolved around his family. David is survived by his sons Dennis (Lynn) McKee, David (Jannine) McKee, and Doug (Deanna) McKee; 7 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his step-daughters Jody Keister and Linda Sutton, and his brother-in-law Dayton Cunningham. He is preceded in death by his wife Sandra McKee, his parents David Sr. and Pauline McKee, and his sister Linda Cunningham. David's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kayla, Nick, Sue, and John for their special care and kindness towards David.

David's life was a lesson in love, humor, and resilience, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be missed, but his stories, his laughter, and his love will live on. Please feel encouraged to share your favorite stories, memories, and photos of David on his memorial page. David's life was a tapestry of vibrant threads, and every memory shared adds to its richness.

A Memorial Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 2, 2026 in McCorkle Funeral Home - Rockton Chapel, 767 N. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton, IL with Reverend Dr. John Mehn officiating. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of ceremony on Saturday. Final resting place to be Shirland Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Croix Hospice, 185 Buckley Dr., Suite B, Rockford, Illinois 61107.