Dennis C. Diehl, 80, of Atkinson, IL passed away Sunday, December 13th at home with his family.

Dennis was born in Keokuk, IA on March 16, 1940 to Austin E. and Marjorie (Kirchner) Diehl. He was raised in Kahoka, MO and was a 1958 graduate of Kahoka High School. Dennis served in the Air Force in the early 1960's and studied at Universities of Maryland and Missouri, and was a proud graduate of Augustana College in Rock Island. He married Helen (Tab) J. Ludwick on September 3, 1966. He worked as an engineer at the John Deere Foundry in Silvis until it closed in 1993 and afterwards during decommissioning. In retirement Dennis continued to do consulting work and was active in the former Congregational Church in Atkinson and the Atkinson Kiwanis. He also served as a member of the Atkinson School Board in the 1980's. Dennis enjoyed work and fellowship and making lasting friendships.

Together with Tab they raised 3 children in rural Atkinson. They spent many summers at the Lake of the Ozarks, a place he loved. Dennis was a grandfather to 8. He was always available to help his family; patiently babysitting, playing Monopoly and Connect 4, taking kids on tractor and boat rides, fishing, and reading stories.

He is survived by his wife Tab and Children; Mark (Tracy) Diehl of Atkinson, Natalie (Dave) Hessell of East Moline, and Daniel (Kristi) Diehl of Geneseo. Grandchildren Jordan (Jake) Diehl Mann and Emily Diehl of Chicago; Ian, Eliza, Ariel and Anna Hessell of East Moline; and Bryce and Josh Diehl of Geneseo. Siblings Jean (Rex) Tracy of Cary, NC, and Gary (Karen) Diehl of Lee's Summit, MO, several nieces and nephews, and his dog Lily

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation rites have been accorded by Van Hoe Funeral Home.

A celebration of Dennis' life will be planned in the spring.

Donation in Dennis' name may be made to:

Tunnel to Towers Donation Form

Or

Samaritan's Purse

John 14:1-3

1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

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