Longtime Illinois Farmer Dwight Kiefer Dies at 73

Kiefer was a fourth-generation farmer and insurance agent who was active in his local community.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:27pm

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Dwight Kiefer, a 73-year-old resident of Belle Rive, Illinois, passed away on April 2, 2026, at a hospital in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Kiefer was a lifelong farmer who also worked as an insurance agent and was involved in various community organizations.

Why it matters

Kiefer's death marks the passing of a prominent figure in the Belle Rive farming community, where his family had deep roots going back generations. His involvement in local organizations and businesses made him a well-known and respected member of the community.

The details

Kiefer spent his career working on the family farm in Belle Rive, raising grain and cattle until his retirement. In addition to farming, he served as an insurance agent with Kiefer Insurance Agency. He was a past president of Jefferson County Mutual and a former member of the Opdyke Belle Rive School Board.

  • Dwight Kiefer passed away on April 2, 2026 at 5:20 p.m.
  • A Visitation will be held on April 10, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by a Memorial Service at 7:00 pm.

The players

Dwight Kiefer

A 73-year-old fourth-generation farmer and insurance agent from Belle Rive, Illinois who was active in his local community.

Marian (Unfried) Kiefer

Dwight Kiefer's estranged wife who survives him.

Kyle Kiefer

Dwight Kiefer's son who lives in Belle Rive, Illinois.

Kent Kiefer

Dwight Kiefer's son who lives in Glencoe, Illinois.

Kaela Kennedy

Dwight Kiefer's daughter who lives in Foster City, California.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

A private inurnment for Dwight Kiefer will be held at a later date at Hope Cemetery in Ina, Illinois.

The takeaway

Dwight Kiefer's passing marks the end of an era for the Belle Rive farming community, where his family had deep roots and he was a well-known and respected figure. His involvement in local organizations and businesses made him an integral part of the community, and his death will be felt by many.