Cayden Mahr Peoria IL Death – With heavy hearts, we announce the untimely passing of Cayden Daniel Mahr, a beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, who left this world on October 5, 2024. He was just 23 years old.
Born on June 14, 2001, in Peoria, Illinois, Cayden was the pride of Daniel Robert and Naydeen Jan (Blout) Mahr. A 2019 graduate of A-Town High School, he went on to earn an associate degree in Diesel and Power Systems Technology from Spoon River College, embarking on a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep passion for farming and trucking.
During his high school years, Cayden excelled in athletics and leadership roles. As a talented football and basketball player, he led A-Town’s basketball team to an impressive 20-9 season as the only senior on the team.
His skills on the court earned him the title of 2019 All-Area Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Cayden was also deeply involved in the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where he served as president and was awarded the prestigious FFA State Degree.
Cayden lived life to the fullest and embraced his passions with enthusiasm. Whether he was farming, trucking, or enjoying time on the water, Cayden’s love for life was evident.
Boating at Little Swan Lake, the Ozarks, or the Gulf of Mexico was where he found his greatest joy, and he was a skilled water skier. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and snow skiing during the winter months.
At the age of 18, Cayden earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and quickly became a key figure in his family’s business, Hiel Trucking. His expertise extended to every aspect of farming, working closely with his father, uncle, and grandfather at Blout Farms. Known for his remarkable abilities, Cayden could operate any machine, and he proudly co-owned Prairie Brothers Farms.
His infectious smile was one of his trademarks. It often got him into a bit of mischief but managed to get him out of much more. Cayden’s charm, sense of humor, and unwavering work ethic left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Cayden leaves behind his parents, Danny and Naydeen Mahr of Prairie City; his siblings, Calen and Aeryn Mahr; his maternal grandparents, Armin and Jan Blout; paternal grandparents, John and Elizabeth Hiel; as well as a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Bertie (Butch) Dawdy and Paul Mahr.
Although Cayden’s life was tragically cut short, he touched the hearts of many and left behind a legacy of love, hard work, and joy. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Aaron and Julie Blout machine shed, located at 22320 E 2200th Street, Prairie City, Illinois. Funeral services will follow on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. in the same location.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Cayden Mahr Scholarship Fund, which will support graduating seniors. Arrangements are being handled by Martin-Hollis Funeral Home. Condolences can be shared online at www.martinhollisfh.com.