Frederick W. Keesy

Frederick W. Keesy, 71, of Rockford, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, in Rockford. He was born on February 27, 1954, in Moline IL, the son of Boyd and Violet (Leuthold) Keesy. Fred earned Bachelor of Science degrees in English (diploma in education) and Journalism from the University of Colorado in Boulder and was awarded top honors as the Outstanding Graduate for the School of Education. He ended a long and varied career working as a paraprofessional with special education students for the Harlem School District in Machesney Park, IL.

Fred was the type of person who truly believed in the adage that life is a journey, not a destination. He was an outdoor enthusiast who loved landscape photography. He also often lent his skills as a photographer for the weddings of friends and family. Fred’s interest in the outdoors accompanied his athletic pursuits as a member of the ski patrol, as an avid hiker and camper, as a mountain biker and runner, and as an experienced ocean kayaker. He was always interested in exploring the world and traveled extensively, from whitewater rafting in Costa Rica to canoeing the Boundary Waters of Minnesota to downhill skiing in the French Alps.

Fred had a wide range of hobbies and pursuits. He was proud to have achieved a black belt in martial arts. He was a collector of model and remote-control airplanes and fascinated by the history of America’s military aircraft and World War II. He was an eager volunteer for Rockford’s AirFest. A favorite pastime was attending World War II re-enactments and visiting World War II themed museums with his cousins. He also authored a variety of magazine articles on sports and nature.

Above all, Fred was a kind and gentle man with a wonderful sense of humor who took joy in teaching his students at Harlem High School. Fred loved his time coaching girls’ basketball and other youth sports and being a mentor for his many students. He felt there was no greater compliment than hearing students say they wanted to grow up to be just like him. His caring nature and positive attitude endeared him to all who knew him. He often expressed how fortunate he was to have held many longtime, close friends with whom he shared his travels and adventures.

Fred is survived by his sisters, Janice Alfini (Jeffrey) and Joyce Gibbons (Richard); his nephews, Nathan Gibbons (Brianna Anderson), Benjamin Gibbons (Jessica), and Joseph Gibbons; his nieces, Jillian Carter (Cody), Shannon Gutierrez (Nick) and Anna Friel (Sean); his six great nephews; and his brother-in-law, Johnny Williams. He is preceded by his parents and his sister, June Williams.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.