Kevin John "Bear" Campbell's Obituary
Kevin John “Bear” Campbell, 70 of Decatur, passed away Monday, January 20, 2025, in his home. Kevin was born on April 24, 1954, in Niles, Michigan. He was the son of John Jasper and Phyllis (Anderson) Campbell. Kevin, an Eagle Scout, graduated from Stephen Decatur high school in 1972. He also attended the University of Illinois and Richland Community College. He worked in the lab at Wagner Castings where he met his wife Paula and then went on to become a foreman in various departments of the foundry. After 18 years, Kevin hired on at ADM as a foreman in the feed house and alcohol, retiring as a maintenance supervisor at the age of 57.
Kevin married Paula Keck on August 8, 1976, in Decatur. A few years later, both Kevin and Paula received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. He was a parent volunteer with the Decatur Swim Club in the 90’s. Kevin loved hunting with his father and son Joe at the family farm. Boating on Lake Decatur and trips to Gulf Shores, Alabama were some of the things he loved to do with his children and grandchildren.
He caught the “motorcycle fever” in 2006 when he rented a bike at Daytona Beach for their 25th wedding anniversary. After that, he and son Joe rode their motorcycles to Sturgis, S.D. twice, having a great time. Kevin and Paula then took motorcycle trips to the 4 corners of the U.S.: Maine/Nova Scotia, Florida Keys, San Diego and Seattle, plus to several places in between. He gave generously to missions, and he also organized gun raffles for a downed rider. Kevin rode with the Patriot Guards to D. C., and joined Bikers Against Child Abuse. Lastly, he was a member of the Old Brothers Motorcycle Club. Kevin has made many lasting friendships with his biker brothers and sisters.
Surviving is his wife Paula, children Joseph Campbell of Decatur, IL, and Julie (Michael) Clark of Cerro Gordo, IL. Granddaughters Jessica, Phoebe, Bridget and Piper. Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. Visitation will be from 10 AM to 12 PM Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Resurrection Life Church, 1085 W. McKinley Ave, Decatur, IL, with a funeral service immediately following at noon. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Resurrection Life Church: missions.
The burial will be in Mt. Gilead cemetery.
Much love has been poured out to him from his church family at Rez Life and his motorcycle family.
Special thanks to Pastor Rusty, Bibs, Meathead and Curly Q.
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