Walter J. “Bud” Geaschel, 87, of Keyesport, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Liberty Village in Maryville, IL. He was born on August 29, 1938, in Caseyville, IL, to the late Charlotte Clara (nee Rekolt) and Walter Nicholas Geaschel.

Bud loved his profession as a carpenter and was a long standing member of Locals #169, #295 and #664. A Shriner for 50 years, he took pride in their service to children and volunteered as a transporter for them to receive treatment. He was also a member of the Collinsville Masonic Lodge #712. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including fishing, hunting, boating, and camping - most often with his wife, Carol, and one of his many black labs. He built his home from the ground up including the cabinets and woodwork. Other favorite activities include gardening, canning vegetables and baking. Bud and wife, Carol, enjoyed time with friends at the American Legion and Bob’s Tavern in Keyesport, and especially entertaining family and friends for fish fries and barbecues to celebrate holidays and birthdays.

In addition to his parents, Bud was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene “Carol” (nee Johnson) Geaschel, whom he married on November 27, 2001, and who passed away on April 23, 2026; and his grandson, Victor Alexander Chavez.

He is survived by his five children, Theresa Chavez of Newburgh, IN; Scott (Anita) Geaschel of Collinsville, IL; Vicki (Dale) Geaschel-Robert of Coulterville, IL; James (Gayla) Robertson of Edwardsville; Kent Robertson of Keyesport; a brother, Robert Geaschel of Caseyville, IL; a sister, Shirley McCain of Caseyville, IL; as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at which time a Masonic service will be held.  Burial will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Shriners Hospitals for Children and may be received at the visitation or mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.