Brad A. Mehrkens, a cherished resident of Pontiac, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, in Sugar Grove, IL, at the age of 59. His sudden departure has left a profound impact on the community and his family.
A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home in Pontiac, IL. Friends, family, and community members are invited to pay their respects. The following day, a public graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. at South Side Cemetery in Pontiac, officiated by Pastor Jason Woolever. Attendees are also invited to gather at Bob & Ringo’s Tavern afterward to share memories and fellowship, honoring Brad’s life.
Born on February 19, 1965, in Fairbury, IL, to Joseph and Peggy (Sutter) Mehrkens, Brad was deeply rooted in the Pontiac community. He graduated from Pontiac Township High School in 1983 and went on to attend Illinois Central College. Over the years, Brad built a remarkable career, working for the Illinois Department of Agriculture, managing Bob & Ringo’s Tavern, and contributing to his family’s business at Donnell’s Printing and Office Products for over four decades.
Brad’s life was marked by his active involvement in the community, particularly through his role as the Exalted Ruler of the Pontiac Elks and as the Illinois State Elk of the Year. His love for sports was well-known, with a particular passion for golf and an unwavering support for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Brad was a familiar face at the Pontiac Holiday Tournament and loved attending golf tournaments, including the Masters. Above all, Brad was a devoted family man who cherished every moment with his wife, Kara, and their three daughters, Lauren, Andrea, and Samantha.
The outpouring of grief and love on social media reflects the deep connections Brad had with those around him. Matt Duffy, reflecting on Brad’s character, shared on Facebook, “Brad was a swell fella! Very sorry for your loss.” Marie Kane expressed her sorrow, saying, “Oh Brad, you’re leaving a huge hole in many hearts. Praying for comfort for Kara and all the family.” Michael Douglas Fry added, “My condolences to the family and friends, he truly was a nice guy with great character!”
Brad is survived by his wife, Kara (Wolf) Mehrkens, his daughters, Lauren of Princeton, IL, Andrea of Chicago, IL, and Samantha of Pontiac, IL, as well as his mother, Peggy, and siblings, Mark and Nicole. His extended family, including brothers-in-law Robert and Richard Wolf, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, will also deeply feel his loss.
Brad’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness, dedication, and love for his family will be remembered always. Memorials in Brad’s memory may be made to Future’s Unlimited in Pontiac, IL, as the community honors the legacy of a man who gave so much to those around him.