Woodlawn Man Loses Battle with Melanoma Cancer at 36

Sean Michael Keip, a dedicated family man and employee, passed away surrounded by loved ones.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 3:32pm

Sean Michael Keip, a 36-year-old resident of Woodlawn, Illinois, lost his battle with Melanoma cancer on March 23, 2026. Keip was born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois and is survived by his wife, two sons, mother, siblings, and other family members. He was a hardworking employee at Rightnowar's Heating and Cooling and was deeply devoted to his family, gardening, and his faith at Woodlawn Christian Church.

Why it matters

Keip's story highlights the importance of early detection and regular skin cancer screenings, as his melanoma was discovered through a mole on his ear. His family is encouraging others to get yearly exams and perform self-checks at home to catch any suspicious moles or changes in skin health.

The details

Keip was diagnosed with Melanoma with an NRAS mutation after a mole was found on his ear. He fought the cancer with strength, hoping to watch his two young sons grow up. Keip was a dedicated employee at Rightnowar's Heating and Cooling, a company that treated him like family. He was also passionate about gardening, growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers that he loved to share. Above all, Keip was devoted to his family and faith, regularly inviting people to attend Woodlawn Christian Church with him.

  • Keip was diagnosed with Melanoma in an unspecified year prior to his passing.
  • Keip passed away on March 23, 2026 at 4:52 pm.

The players

Sean Michael Keip

A 36-year-old resident of Woodlawn, Illinois who lost his battle with Melanoma cancer.

Hillary (Scott) Keip

Keip's loving wife.

Sherry Keip

Keip's mother.

Rightnowar's Heating and Cooling

The company where Keip was a dedicated employee, treating him like family.

Woodlawn Christian Church

The church where Keip was a proud member, having been baptized there in 2019.

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What’s next

There will be no services at this time. In lieu of flowers, his family knows it would mean the world to Sean if you attended church. If you don't have a church, Woodlawn Christian Church has services Sundays at 9 am and 11 am (childcare at the 11:00 service) and we would love for you to attend and hear his favorite Pastor Doug. And if you do have a church you already attend, reach out to someone and invite them with you.

The takeaway

Keip's story serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of early detection and regular skin cancer screenings. His family is encouraging others to get yearly exams and perform self-checks at home to catch any suspicious moles or changes in skin health, in the hopes of preventing similar losses in the future.