Monroe Rinzie Kemerling Jr.

KEWANEE - Monroe Rinzie Kemerling, Jr. 89, of Kewanee, beloved husband, father and grandfather entered eternity with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at 12:10 a.m. Saturday, November 28, 2020.

He was born at home in Kewanee on February 17, 1931, the youngest son of Monroe, Sr. and Marmertien (Stewart) Kemerling.

Monroe graduated from Kewanee High School in 1950 and married the love of his life, Lucille Gladys Kane, on June 27, 1954 at St. John Lutheran Church in Edford Twp. With God first he was devoted to his wife and family and modeled how to honor both his parents and his in-laws. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and their families. Monroe’s faith was in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and he was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where he faithfully served on the Elder Board and served as Chairman of the congregation for many years. He tried to share his faith with everyone he met.

He was employed by Kewanee Boiler Corporation for over 40 years. Always the entrepreneur he also operated Kemerling’s Trading Post from 1960-1963. Monroe combined his love for people, serving and automobiles by driving people to doctor appointments as far away as Mayo Clinic. He and his wife operated The Kemerling Dolls, making many friends as they traveled to doll shows and flea markets across the country. He loved sharing stories and visiting with people.

Monroe is survived by their children, Karla (John) Perkowski of Parkville, MO, Diana (Jeff) Shreck of Kewanee, Tammie (William) Johnson of Round Lake, IL, Monroe (Frances) Kemerling III of Cary, IL and Kim (Eric) Michaelsen of Lemont, IL, eight grandchildren, Adam (Karen) Shreck, Melinda (Michael) Fisa, Paul (Christie) Neumann, Sara (Luke) Weeks, Mary Michaelsen, Rebekah (Matthew) Williams, Alexia Kemerling and Susanna Kemerling, and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, three sisters, three brothers and an infant daughter, Nancy.

Private services will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kewanee with Rev. Burnell Eckardt officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Rux Funeral Home in Kewanee is in charge of arrangements.

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