Nolan Kiel, a varsity soccer player of North Mac Community Unit School District, passed away at the age of 16 on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, while operating a tractor.
His parents, Jaclyn Rheude and Josh Kiel, are having a hard time after having already lost their other son, Colby Tyler Rheude, in May 2020.
Amazing turnout at North Mac High School to honor Nolan Kiel tonight pic.twitter.com/10VTT39aQe
— Spencer Davis (@sdavismedia) August 14, 2025
Nolan Kiel was the kind of teammate, friend, and person who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was known for his unwavering positivity and infectious spirit.
He had a way of making people feel valued, whether on the field, in the classroom, or in everyday life. Moreover, he had a go-out-and-do-it attitude and wasn’t afraid to step outside his comfort zone to make a difference for someone else.
His legacy isn’t just in the games he played or the goals he scored, but in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, selflessness, and life.
Undoubtedly, his untimely passing left the whole community mourning, and many remembered him in their heartfelt tribute. The school hosted a candlelight vigil in honor of him.
It is with great sadness we share news of the tragic passing of North Mac High School student Nolan Kiel. Nolan will be remembered by the North Mac community as always possessing a positive attitude and friendly demeanor. Please keep the Kiel family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this time of grief.
North Mac CUSD #34
Nolan Kiel Passed Away From Asphyxiation
On Tuesday morning in Virden, Illinois, 16-year-old Nolan Kiel lost his life in a tragic farm accident. His parents, Jaclyn Rheude and Josh Kiel, are devastated by the sad loss.
Authorities responded to the scene around 11 a.m. after receiving reports of the incident, where they found the young victim deceased.
Yesterday we lost our teammate Nolan Kiel in a tragic accident. Nolan was the nicest kid. He always had a positive attitude and was a great teammate. Please keep his family, friends, and teammates in your prayers. #Play4Nolan pic.twitter.com/DJniBkV3o6
— North Mac High School Soccer (@NorthMacSoccer) August 13, 2025
According to the Macoupin County Sheriff’s Department, Nolan was operating the tractor at the time of the accident.
They conducted an autopsy on August 13 in which the teen’s death resulted from asphyxiation. However, they haven’t released further details surrounding the circumstances.
The community of Virden is mourning the loss of Nolan, who is remembered as a hardworking young man with deep ties to the local farming community.
His friends, family, and neighbors are left grappling with the sudden tragedy as investigations by the sheriff’s department and coroner’s office continue.
Authorities haven’t provided additional information as they work to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Nolan’s parents, Jaclyn Rheude and Josh Kiel; brother, Austin Rheude; sister, Nora Kiel; and grandparents, Ken Kelnhofer and Bernie Kiel; survive him.
Furthermore, North Mac schools have offered counseling and support services to students and staff as the tight-knit community comes together in grief.
Funeral arrangements for Nolan Kiel are pending, with loved ones preparing to honor his memory in the days ahead. Rest In Peace, Nolan Kiel.
Our hearts are heavy as we grieve the loss of Nolan Kiel, a past Vacation Bible School participant who also gave his time to help at VBS whenever he could. Nolan was a kind, uplifting young man who touched many lives—both here at Grace and in the wider community.
Grace Southern Baptist
Jaclyn Rheude and Josh Kiel Lost Another Son, Colby, in 2020
Colby Tyler Rheude was born on March 25, 2002, in Springfield, Illinois, and touched countless lives before his passing on May 6, 2020.
He was known for his humility, kindness, and infectious positivity.
Colby was a senior at North Mac High School and was eagerly anticipating his graduation. He had plans to attend Blackburn College in the fall, where he intended to study Secondary Education.
He participated in Scholastic Bowl, Track, and Cross Country, and thrived on camaraderie, always lifting others’ spirits with his humor and encouragement.
Beyond school, Colby was deeply rooted in his faith. He was a devoted member of the First Christian Church of Girard and served as a youth group leader, Vacation Bible School volunteer, and unofficial assistant to Sunday school teachers.
His dedication extended to the Girard Food Pantry, where he selflessly gave his time to help those in need.
Furthermore, Colby was also a hard worker, balancing a job at the Virden Sanitation Department since the age of 15. Despite the demands, he never lost his sense of humor, often joking about his dirty job with a trademark grin.
His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, and community, but his legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering optimism will live on.
He will be remembered as a guiding light, a loyal friend, and a young man who always found the silver lining in life.
Rest in peace, Colby.
