Linda Lou Kieffer's Obituary
Linda Lou Kieffer, age 70, of Charleston, IL, passed away at 2:50 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, IL. She was born on March 18, 1955, to Lawrence and Adeline (Krueger) Barfknecht in Marshfield, WI. On May 25, 1974, she married the love of her life, Michael William Kieffer, in Marshfield, beginning a partnership that lasted more than five decades.
She is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Mike Kieffer of Charleston, IL; three sons, Steven (Karina) Kieffer of Milwaukee, WI, Karl (Amanda) Kieffer of Gruetli Laager, TN, and Adam (Brooke) Kieffer of Charleston, IL; and seven treasured grandchildren, Gwendelyn Kieffer, Colby Kieffer, Chelsea Kieffer, Kara Shadwick, Katie Kieffer, Isabella Mellott, and Jordyn Kieffer. She is also survived by two siblings, Paul (Cheryl) Barfknecht of Albrightsville, PA, and Kathy (Michael) Gleisner of Chili, WI. She was preceded in death by her parents, one grandchild, Madelyn Hope Kieffer, and three siblings.
Linda graduated from Marshfield High School in Wisconsin. She moved to Charleston 34 years ago after leaving Wisconsin and quickly made the community her home. Starting her career of animal care as a Vet Tech for Crestline Veterinary Clinic. Then she and her husband purchased and operated Kieffer’s K9 Country Club in Mattoon, IL, for 20 years, where Linda devoted herself to dog grooming and animal care that led to over 30 years of animal care. Her gentle nature and steady patience made her a comfort not only to the animals she cared for, but also to their families. Before opening the facility, she was a licensed beautician and brought the same care, creativity, and kindness to that work as well.
Linda had many talents and hobbies that reflected her generous spirit. She loved sewing, knitting, crocheting, refinishing furniture, painting, and gardening. She found joy in making and nurturing things, and her home was always filled with signs of her creativity. Her home was also never without the companionship of animals; she always had a beloved dog or cat nearby, each one cared for with the same tenderness she showed to the people in her life. Those who knew her will remember her quiet warmth, her willingness to help, and the thoughtful way she showed love through the work of her hands and the gentle care she gave to every living thing around her.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Coles County Animal Shelter, 6818 N. Co. Rd. 1120 E., Charleston, IL 61920.
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