Daryl Koderhandt
Smithton | Save
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Dad, Son, Brother, Son-in-law, Brother-in-law, Uncle and dear friend, Daryl William Koderhandt, age 55, who passed away peacefully on Monday, July 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, after a courageous four-year battle with gastroesophageal junction (GE junction) cancer.
Daryl worked for the St. Clair County Roads and Bridges Highway Department and could frequently be spotted in his high-vis work shirt while receiving chemotherapy after a day of snow plowing or grass mowing. He was a former Volunteer Firefighter with East Side Volunteer Fire Department and Smithton Fire Department.
Daryl faced his illness with remarkable strength, unwavering courage, and a determination that inspired everyone who knew him. While cancer challenged his body, it never diminished his spirit, his sense of humor, or the love he shared so freely with others. Throughout his journey, he was lifted by countless prayers, the unwavering support of family and friends, and the compassionate care of those who walked beside him.
Daryl will be remembered not for the cancer he fought, but for the incredible way he lived. He never met a stranger. Whether you had known him for years or had just met him, Daryl had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like an old friend. His smile, quick wit, and amazing sense of humor could brighten any room, and he found joy in making others laugh, even during life’s most difficult moments.
Nothing brought Daryl greater happiness than spending time with the people he loved most. He cherished hunting with his boys and camping with family and friends, creating traditions and memories that will live on for generations. He was one of Notre Dame Football Fighting Irish biggest fans, could make a perfect kettle of apple butter and could rock a pink Easter Bunny or Elf costume.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Daryl is finally free from cancer and is now at peace. His courage, faith, humor, and enduring love leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us. While we will miss his laughter, his stories, his hugs, and his unmistakable presence every day, we are forever grateful for the gift of having had him in our lives.
Daryl is survived by his loving family; Wife, Carrie (nee Schutzenhofer); Sons, Dalton Koderhandt (Kayla Guetersloh) and Drake Koderhandt (Kaili Piker); Father, David Koderhandt; Sisters, Deanna (Rick) Wilkin and Denise Feld (Lenny Oligies); Mother-In-Law, Patricia Schutzenhofer; Brother-in-laws, Luke (Cindy) Schutzenhofer and Mike (Lori) Schutzenhofer; Nieces and Nephews; Paige (Anthony) Lombardo, Darcie Feld (Eric Moody), Donelle (Ryan) Wilkin, Dustin, Brianna, Chase, Hannah, Adam and Emma Schutzenhofer, Katlyn (Connor) Pardieck, Great Nephews and Nieces, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and many, many cherished friends who will carry his memory in their hearts forever.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Donna (nee Isselhardt) Koderhandt; his maternal grandparents, Bill & Dorothy Isselhardt; paternal grandparents, George & Mabel Koderhandt; Father-in-law, Luke E. Schutzenhofer and Nephew, Payton Wilkin.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. John Visconti, Nurse Practitioner Alicia Carmack, Nurse Liz Drennan, Nurse Claire Petterson, Nurse Mindy Harmon, and the entire team at Siteman in Shiloh for the exceptional, personalized care extended to Daryl and his family over the past 4 years.
A special thank you to Jeff (Doc) and Brandy Arendell for their constant support and guidance, Nurse Practitioner Maegan Korte and to all our KodersKrew members for their faithful rowing.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Kassly Mortuary, Fairview Heights, IL.
Visitation will also be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Cathedral of Saint Peter, Belleville, IL.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 18, at 10:00 am at Cathedral of Saint Peter, Belleville, IL, with Bishop Godfrey and Father Mark Reyling officiating. Daryl’s wishes were to be cremated after services.
Though he has left this earthly shore, Daryl’s love remains our anchor, and the memories he created—in the woods, in the duck blind, around the campfire, in every laugh he shared, and in every heart, he touched—will continue to guide us home.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory are invited to contribute to the Daryl Koderhandt Family Support Fund. Donations will help offset the medical expenses and financial hardships resulting from his long illness. Please click the link to make a donation. http://spot.fund/vk715dtsc
Kassly Mortuary, Ltd.
