Marty Kepp Hartke (40) of Neoga

Marty Kepp Hartke, 40, from Neoga, Illinois, peacefully departed this life on Sunday, May 12, 2024, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on December 29, 1983, in Illinois, Marty was the cherished son of Gary and LuAnn (Kepp) Hartke. A dedicated farmer and collaborator with his father in managing the Little Wabash Shooting Preserve in Neoga, Marty's passion for the land was evident. He was a proud graduate of Neoga High School, class of 2002, where he excelled in Basketball and Baseball. He attended Lake Land College while continuing his athletic journey playing Baseball for the Lake Land College Lakers. On September 12, 2009, Marty exchanged vows with his beloved wife Ashley Bullock in Neoga, Illinois. Their union was blessed with three daughters: Lola, Nora, and Vera, whom Marty cherished above all else. An outdoorsman at heart, Marty found joy in hunting and fishing. He was a loyal fan of the Neoga Indians, Illini, and the St. Louis Cardinals, where he and Ashley proudly have a brick paver. Beyond his hobbies, Marty was known for his strong work ethic and his unwavering dedication to his family. He was an active member of the New Hope Church in Effingham, Illinois, and had served as a former Neoga City Mayor and member of the City Board. Additionally, Marty contributed to his community as a Neoga Chiefs Softball and Basketball coach, a Neoga Fire Board member, and a participant in the Hoene Deer Camp.

Marty is survived by his devoted wife, Ashley Hartke, and their daughters, Lola, Nora, and Vera. He is also survived by his loving parents, Gary and LuAnn Hartke, his sisters Mindi (Kevin) Haarman and Molly (Courtney) Hartke nephew and nieces Grady and Lucy Haarman, and Ivy Jo Hartke, father-in-law and mother-in-law Dave and Lisa Fearday, sister-in-law Sydney Fearday, sister-in-law Casey (Aaron) Schimmelpfenning, niece and nephew Brooklynn and Brady Schimmelpfenning, father-in-law Barry Bullock, and brothers-in-laws Justin and James Bullock. Marty also leaves behind Grandmother Judy (Claybaugh) Kepp and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and his beloved canine companions, Oliver and Yadi.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Leonard and Lucille Hartke and Richard and Darlene Kepp.

In accordance with Marty's wishes, cremation rites will be observed, and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Neoga Community Center this Saturday, May 18, 2024. A tribute to Marty will be held from 5:00pm-6:00pm that includes family & friends sharing memories & stories of him. An open house celebration will be held immediately following until 9:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Neoga Jr/Sr High Athletic Department. The Swengel-O’Dell Funeral Home in Neoga, Illinois, is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy and condolences can be shared online by clicking here.