Douglas Richard Deck, 59 of Keokuk, IA passed away at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL on April 9th, 2024 after a lengthy illness.
He was born in Keokuk on June 22nd, 1964 at St. Joseph Hospital to Stanley Richard Deck and Sandra Kay Brown Deck. He graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School with the class of 1984 and attended Vatterott College in Quincy, IL.
He worked at County Market & Jack's Department Store, but his favorite job became his profession in 1997 when he and his cousin, Steve Deck formed a lasting partnership doing professional fireworks displays. They also partnered with J&M Displays in Yarmouth, IA to work for them setting up and firing large complicated fireworks shows all over the Midwest. Doug was very proud of his work and his accomplishments in the field alongside his cousin and business partner.
He was of the Catholic faith. Doug was always very gifted artistically and liked to draw. He enjoyed music of all kinds, from classic rock to classical. He was a fan of science fiction, especially "Star Trek". He loved anything related to astronomy or space. He was a very deep thinker and often contemplated very vast and profound subjects and enjoyed engaging in conversation and debate with anyone that was willing and interested. He was a true and devoted friend.
Doug is survived by his cousin and business partner, Steve Deck and his partner Diane Whitmer of Keokuk, along with several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley Deck and Sandra Deck and his beloved grandmother June Deck among other family members.
His wishes were to be cremated and have a portion of his remains interred alongside his parents, and to have the rest incorporated into one last fireworks shell to be launched skyward at his memorial service, which is planned to be a graveside service on June 22nd, 2024, what would have been his 60th birthday, at Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk. There will be no visitation or formal funeral service.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com.
