Keith Wilges

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Keith Richard Wilges, who was called to be with the Lord on March 17, 2025, at the age of 73. Keith was born on December 1, 1951 in Wapakoneta, Ohio, to Richard and Lou Wilges.

Keith’s professional career consisted of employment at EFCO, pursuing his own professional consulting firm, and eventually retiring from Seneca Tank in 2020.

Keith led a life full of faith, kindness, and love. He was a cherished member of Higher Ground Tabernacle where he devoted his life to serving others and sharing the word of God. His unwavering faith provided comfort and strength to all who knew him.

He was a devoted and loving father who cherished every moment spent with his daughters. Whether it was sharing stories, offering advice, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, his love for them was unwavering. His joy was very apparent when he was around his grandchildren. Grabbing a bite to eat, attending one of their events, or chatting at his house, each moment with his grandchildren was very precious to him. His wisdom and caring presence will be forever remembered, and the lessons he imparted will continue to guide them all in life.

Many will remember his warm smile over countless cups of coffee at his local Starbucks. In his spare-time he worked to keep his cars shined to perfection and his lawn the greenest in the neighborhood. Keith attended Ohio State University and continued to be an avid Buckeyes fan, proudly cheering them on every season.

Keith is survived by his wife, Joyce Wilges; two daughters, Kristy (Tim) Hegwood and Kelly (Jesse) Fagen; two stepdaughters, Keri (Ryan) Moore and Maggie Jennisch; nine grandchildren, Kyle, Benjamin, and Jacob Hegwood, Kayla, Joseph, Jameson, and Tyler Fagen, Taylor and Sydney Moore; sister, Kim (Dan) Shappell; sister-in-law, Kay Wilges; niece, Lindsey (Randy) Vertin; and nephew Austin (Ariana) Shappell.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard; mother, Lou; and brother, Greg.

Family will greet friends on Monday, March 24, 2025 from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m., immediately followed by the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines. A private family burial will take place at Sunny Hill Cemetery in Grimes at a later date.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find peace in knowing that Keith is now in the loving arms of the Lord, where there is no pain or sorrow. May he rest in eternal peace.

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