Joshua J. Keemle Memorial Fund

Joshua J. Keemle, 34 of Silvis passed away on Sunday, July 25, 2021, at his home, after a lifelong fight with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Funeral services are 7PM Friday at River City Church, 2305 7th Ave., Moline, IL. Visitation is from 4 PM until service time at the church. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to the family.

Joshua was born on October 23, 1986 in Silvis, the son of John “Jack” and Christine (Hanny) Keemle.

Joshua “J.J.” was an individual who refused to be defined by the limitations of his disease. Whenever an ability was taken from him, he claimed something new for himself. As a child, he played sports and ran until his legs became too weak. At which point, he found his creative side. Joshua was an artist. He expressed his creativity via music, drawing, painting, and digital arts. When this became too difficult, he developed an entire online community for himself; a community in which he found a sense of belonging, connectedness, and support. 

Joshua loved travel, good food, and a generous pour of whiskey. Despite his physical limitations, he was able to experience countless concerts, baseball games, travel through Europe, and many more adventures with his loved ones. Throughout daily life, he found joy in spending time with his friends, family, and online community. His witty, sly, and sarcastic sense of humor brought joy to all who knew him. Joshua will forever be remembered for his big heart. He was always willing to lend an ear to anyone in need and enjoyed being a support for his loved ones. In the midst of people caring for him, J.J. was the one who would care for others through his empathy, compassion, and unconditional love. 

We are all better people for knowing him.

Survivors include his mother Christine Hanny-Lott, Silvis, siblings Randy (Joan) Keemle, Rock Island; Michele (Doan) Gunderson, Davenport; Rick Keemle, Davenport; Melissa (Lynn) Wolking, Folsom, CA; Angie (Brent) Sailer, DeWitt, IA; Jenny (Jim) Legare, Colona; Eddie (Sarah) Thomas, Milan; Kristy (Michael) Homan, Thornton, CO; Tracey Keemle, Silvis; Brent (Christine) Keemle, Rock Island; Jessica Keemle, Aurora, CO; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com

Any donations received that exceed the funeral costs will be given to MDA in memoriam of J.J.