Keith R. Bauer, age 61, of Herscher, Illinois passed away Sunday, October 31, 2021 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee. He was born February 28, 1960 in Kankakee, the son of Ronald A. and Janet (Grob) Bauer. Keith was a retired laborer from the Local 751. He graduated from Herscher High School, class of 1978. He grew up farming with his grandpa and purchased his livestock at a young age, managing to balance school, sports, and his chores. He enjoyed working with his livestock, especially the cattle. Keith was an avid Chicago Blackhawks fan and enjoyed watching sports. He attended all of his grandchildren’s sporting events. Surviving are two sons and two daughters-in-law: Jeremy and Amber Bauer and Brandon and Kristin Bauer, all of Herscher; one daughter, Katie Bauer of Kankakee; six grandchildren: Ethan, Chase, Preston, Ian, Reed, and Blayne; his mother and stepfather, Janet and Roger Boyer; one sister and brother-in-law, Dawn and Ron Fritz of Geneseo; special friend, Deb Smicker of Herscher; as well as numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Keith was preceded in death by his father; one brother, Todd Bauer; and one granddaughter, Carlie Bauer. Visitation was held from 4 until 7 p.m., Thursday, November 4, 2021 at Schreffler Funeral Home in Kankakee. A funeral service was held at 10 a.m., Friday, November 5, 2021, also at the funeral home. Rev. Keith Blankenship officiated. Interment followed in Grand Prairie Cemetery, Herscher. Memorials may be made to the family wishes to be distributed to charities of their choice. Please sign his guestbook at www.schrefflerfuneralhomes. com