Keith D. Baer

Keith Baer, 59, of Pleasant Plains, passed away at 11:29 a.m. on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at his residence. Keith was born February 21, 1953, in Peoria, IL, the son of Elmer and Shirlee Hodel Baer. He married Shirley Matoi on October 18, 1986. Keith went to Morton High School and then attended the University of Illinois where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Biology. He retired from the State of IL in 2002, where he had been employed as a data analyst for more than 25 years. He was a member of Capitol Canine Dog Club, U.S. Tennis Association, Springfield Racquet Club, and Lifelong Learning Institute. He was also an Eagle Scout. He was known for being witty, funny, calm, organized, practical, and smart. In his spare time, he enjoyed biking, tennis, traveling, dog training, movies, learning different languages, and studying military history. He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Baer. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Haruko Baer, of Pleasant Plains; his mother, Shirlee Baer of Morton; one sister, Laurie (husband R.D.) Smith, of Cedar Rapids, IA; two nephews, Jay Smith of Columbus, OH and David Smith of Austin, TX; and one niece, Kelly Smith, of Cedar Rapids, IA. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.