Welcome to St. Louis Covid Memorial.
This site is dedicated to the people in St. Louis who lost their lives due to COVID-19. It’s important to tell their stories and to have a visual representation of their faces so that they may never become “just numbers” in this tragic deadly epidemic.
Please fill out the contact form and reach out if you would like to submit the story of a deceased person, help me out with this project, or just “say hi”.
Stay safe —
Lt. Colonel Gregory R. Hawkins
Lt. Colonel Gregory R. Hawkins passed from complications of COVID-19 in late April 2020. When he retired in 2007, he was the highest ranking African American at the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. He served our City for nearly 40 years. He never stopped serving the St. Louis community, and was active in helping out until he his death.
Lt. Colonel Gregory R. Hawkins is missed deeply by his wife, three grown kids, extended family, his friends and colleagues at the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and ARCHS, and all the countless children and families whose lives he touched.
Shirley Maxine Hayes
Shirley Maxine Hayes died of COVID-19 on May 16, 2020 at NHC Healthcare in Maryland Heights. She was known as a spit-fire outspoken advocate of marriage equality and the LGBTQ community, and as a champion of social justice issues. Shirley Maxine was a fiercely independent woman who spoke her mind often and freely and as such was admired by many.
Mr. Edward Hellm, Jr.
Edward Hellm Jr. died of COVID-19 on April 27, 2020 at the age of 69. He was a veteran who'd served our country, a loving father and husband, and a retiree with lots of friends. He died alone in the hospital on a ventilator. Eddie is missed deeply by his wife, adult kids, grandkids, family, many friends, and all those who knew him.
Margaret Mary Hellrich
Margaret Mary Hellrich (nicknamed Meaux) died from complications of COVID-19 and "general health issues" on August 28, 2020 at Stearns Nursing Home in Granite City, IL. She was 58 years old.
Although born with Down's Syndrome, Margaret's family loved and fully supported her so she was able to live a fulfilling life, traveling overseas to Europe and Australia and all around the country. She was very involved with the Catholic Church throughout her entire life, advanced through Special Education, and found employment and even more friends at the Sheltered Workshop. Margaret loved music, dancing, animals, camping trips, and leopard print clothes. Her special friend of 30+ years was Pete, who would take two different busses to visit her as much as possible until the nursing home locked down for COVID.
Patricia Ann Hennessey
Patricia Ann Hennessey passed of COVID-19 on April 21, 2020. She was 67 years old.
She is loved and missed by her sisters and large extended family and friends.
Talmage “Tal” Dwain Hillman
Talmage Dwain Hillman of Godfrey IL died of COVID-19 on December 16, 2020 at the age of 75. His final message before he died was "wear a mask, the life you save may not be your own." Tal spent his life helping people live better lives through his work with the developmentally disabled at Bellefontaine Habilitation Center. He's remembered for the way he lifted everyone up, helping employees he managed to reach their potential as they helped the residents they worked with. After retiring in 2013, Tal stayed in touch with his old coworkers, finally had time to golf more, and loved live shows and Cardinals games. Lately he had started to forget things and moved into an assisted living facility, but he "remembered two current things: Covid & he hated Trump." Tal was still madly in love with his wife of 54 years and they were able to Facetime together before he passed.
Beverly Hobaugh
Beverly G. Hobaugh of Farmington died of COVID-19 on September 20, 2020 at the age of 59. 10 days before her death from COVID-19, she recorded a warning message and posted it to Facebook. Beverly was a member of the Farmington Church of the Nazarene. She also volunteered at The Life Center and was an empathetic, tireless caregiver in her to her family. Her compassion and generosity touched inspired her friends and acquaintances.Beverly is missed deeply by her family, especially her twin sister, her extended family, friends, church family, and everyone else whose lives she touched.
Dolly Naomi Hood
Dolly Naomi Hood of St. Peters, died of COVID-19 on April 10, 2020 at the age of 80. She was recovering from a stroke at The Landing of O'Fallon where she started having trouble breathing and was taken to the ER on April 2. She passed 8 days later in the hospital ICU. Her husband and lifelong companion wrote on her obituary page, "the hardest part was that I could not be with her during any of it."
Dolly Naomi Hood is missed deeply by her husband who she was married to for 62 years, her two adult children, her extended family, her many friends, garden club, church, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Leroy J. Huskamp
Leroy Huskamp of Fairmont City IL died of COVID-19 on November 22 at Granite City Nursing and Rehabilitation at the age of 84. Leroy is remembered for being a congenial conversationalist who never met a stranger and who could make anyone smile. He loved to go fishing and to spend time with his family.
Cynthia Sue Jenkins, unbreakable spirit and kind friend
Cynthia Sue Jenkins died on April 26 of COVID-19 with her daughter at her side. She'd previously resided in an assisted care facility and was much loved by the staff and friends that she made there. Cynthia was known for being kind, resilient, generous, and a great friend who always had time to listen. Her life was not easy, but she always bounced back and had an unbreakable spirit.
Kim Jennings
Kim Jennings, a high school physical education teacher in East St. Louis IL (district 189) died of COVID-19 on April 16, 2020. Less than a year before her untimely death from coronavirus, Kim had helped the Flyerettes of East St. Louis win the Illinois Class 2A state championship (in May 2019), their first state championship since 2011. Kim Jennings touched countless lives as a teacher and coach. She undoubtedly imparted values and ideals of teamwork, facing adversity, and practicing to reach top performance to thousands of children during her time as a teacher. She was vivacious and was looking forward to more years working in her vocation.
Jane Durbin Jensen
Jane Jensen of Kirkwood died of Covid19 related complications at the age of 83 on October 25, 2020.
Jane was married to the love of her life, Bill, for 19 years until his untimely death in 1979. She returned to work, raised her four daughters, and never remarried. A devout Catholic, Jane lived her faith by helping others, and passed those values on to her daughters (two of them grew up to become doctors). After 20 years as a secretary at the Museum of Transportation, Jane retired and threw herself into volunteering with St. Patrick's Center, St. Peters Church, and other community causes. She was truly a doer with actions behind her words and thoughts.
Jane Jensen is missed deeply by her daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, church family, and by the many people whose lives she helped make better through her volunteer work and friendship.
Essie Belinda Johnson
Essie Belinda Johnson died of COVID-19 on April 11, just two days after testing positive. She was 69 years old. Essie Belinda Johnson died alone in a hospital, and her family mourned alone. Essie's daughter Tawanda also caught COVID-19, going into the hospital 5 days after her funeral. Nobody could hug her or be there physically with her as she grieved her mother alone.
Angela R. Jones
This memorial is unedited, as written by her family: Angela Renee Jones, 53, passed on May 9, 2020 after contracting COVID-19. Angela Renee Jones was born on January 26, 1967 in Saint Louis, Missouri. Angela belongs to a large family and an even bigger blended family. Angela was affectionately known as "Cookie" and also later as "Cook Book" and "Auntie Cookie".Angela was a proud graduate of Soldan High School. She kept in close contact with her fellow classmates and she loved to attend alumni events. After graduating from Soldan in 1985, Angela attended Southeast Missouri State University where she studied Accounting. She also attended Saint Louis Community College where she studied nursing. Angela earned her certification in Phlebotomy and she worked for the Saint Louis Red Cross for over 10 years. Angela always did her part to help serve others. Angela had a rare blood type and she regularly donated her blood. Angela later worked for United Health Care Group for 13 years until she contracted COVID-19. Angela always made the time to volunteer and serve in her community. She would often thank others for giving her the opportunity to serve.
Daniel Kampwerth
Daniel L. Kampwerth of Highland IL died of COVID-19 on October 12, 2020 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in O'Fallon IL. Has 63 years old and had just retired in 2019 after working 44 years on the factory floor at Westrock (formerly Alton Box Board Company).
He raised his kids and grandkids with the love of his life, Tami, who he was married to for 41 years and with for 46 years. Dan coached his three daughters' ball games and played basketball with the Weinheimer Holy Dribblers Society Sunday morning basketball league. His favorite sport to play was golf, and he taught his daughters how to play, too. One of the best parts about retiring was getting to travel, play golf, and spend more time with his family. Dan was an active grandpa, and was looking forward to meeting his 4th granddaughter (due at the end of October).
Eureka High School Counselor Sandra J. “Sandy” Kearney
Sandy Kearny started having flu-like symptoms on March 24th, and in less than two weeks she passed of COVID-19 on her 70th birthday.
MaryCatherine Keene
MaryCatherine Keene died May 20 at Riverside Nursing Home and Rehab Center in Alton Illinois from COVID-19 at the age of 94. She was one of 17 deaths at the home as of August 4th. During WWII, MaryCatherine moved to St. Louis and worked as an airplane riveter, and did all she could to help the Allied causes. She was a master storyteller of her true life stories and was proud of being a woman that worked in her time allowing women to wear long pants.
Martin Francis King, MBA
Martin F. King died August 7 from COVID-19 at the age of 86. He and his wife were preparing to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this month.
As his obituary so eloquently states: "Marty’s life was driven by his commitment to “The Four F’s”: Faith, Family, Friends and Fishing. It was this last commitment that was instrumental in the 1989 establishment of the Missouri Stream Team organization. He was a lifelong member of the Conservation Federation of Missouri and Ozark Fly Fishers. He shared this passion with countless friends, family and strangers."
Walter Allen Klein Jr.
Walter Allen Klein Jr. died from complications of COVID-19 on January 19, 2021 at the age of 80. He joined the Army Reserves as a corporal and operated two insurance agencies for over 50 years.
John William Kolditz
John W. Kolditz passed away of COVID-19 on April 3, 2020. He was 85 years old. Kolditz was the first Franklin County death attributed to COVID-19, and the first resident of Grand View Health Center in Washington MO to die of the virus. John's family was able to gather outside the window at Grand Manor to wave, and talk with him on the phone until his breathing became too difficult. They passed messages to him through the staff, but he was soon unable to respond. A nurse stayed with him and held his hand in his final hours and moments, which brought his wife of 63 years much comfort. John W. Kolditz is missed deeply by his wife, his children, his large extended family, and those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Catherine Kutterer
Catherine M. Kutterer died of COVID-19 on September 26, 2020 at Red Bud Hospital in Red Bud IL. Catherine was a resident of Oak Hill nursing home in Waterloo IL when she contracted the coronavirus. Catherine had lived at the assisted care facility for 9 years, getting visited and taken on outings regularly with her family and friends. Once the nursing home locked down in March, her family was unable to visit. Catherine tested positive for COVID-19 on September 18th, and was initially asymptomatic. By the 21st her blood oxygen levels had tanked and she was admitted to Red Bud Hospital where she died surrounded by strangers.
Joyce Octavia (Gardner) Lakes
Joyce Octavia Lakes was admitted to the hospital with COVID-19 on April 2, and passed after a lengthy and exhaustive battle with the coronavirus on June 26, 2020. Joyce worked 30 years for Southwestern Bell after withdrawing from college following the death of her father. Despite challenges in her life, she poured her heart into raising her two children. Joyce somehow always found time for what was important to her; and cultivating authentic relationships tied her busy and varied hobbies together.
Joyce Lakes is deeply missed by her daughter, son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, extended family, church family, work family, and anyone who was fortunate enough to pass through her wide social circle.
Her daughter publicly posted about her long and horrific battle with COVID-19. Every available option to save her life was exhausted over her 2+ month long battle with the novel coronavirus and hope of a full recovery was not lost until she passed over.
Ronnie Lattimore
Ronnie Lee Lattimore of Edwardsville passed away December 13, 2020 at the age of 81 after a hard-fought battle with Covid-19. Ronnie retired from his career at Amoco in Wood River and was enjoying retirement with his wife of 63 years. He loved making wood carvings, eating breakfast at Denny's with his friends, and also stayed an active member of Troy/Collinsville Church of Christ.
Dorothy J. Lauman
Dorothy J. Lauman passed away on May 7, 2020 from Covid-19, at the age of 96. She started playing piano at the age of 6, and was still playing it for the residents of Nazareth Living Center up until about a month before she died (90 years!). Music was a big part of her life, and she taught piano to all ages of students throughout her life. She baked 3000 cookies every Christmas and knitted sweaters for family and pets (and her knitted dish-rags "never wore out"). Setting up her Christmas tree, with stories behind ornaments from every year and part of life, is a memory her grandchildren treasure.
Donald E. Lavin
Donald "Don" Lavin died of COVID-19 on December 21, 2020 at the age of 94. Don was raised in North St. Louis and served in the Navy on the USS Borie at the end of World War II. After being honorably discharged, Don completed his studies at St. Louis University and married the love of his life. They raised three children and grew stronger together after the tragic death of their youngest child to heart disease. While Don prioritized his family and faith, his accomplished career in the automotive industry spanned more than forty years, the last thirty-two of which he spent at Chrysler. He was known for his limitless capacity for kindness, his laughter, his epic story telling, fierce poker playing, and driving tennis opponents to insanity with his notorious lob.
Matthew Leake
Matthew Joseph Leake died from COVID-19 on August 24, 2020 at the age of 60. He was trying to beat cancer, but caught coronavirus and died alone in the hospital. Matt was known by his friends as a giant teddybear because of his gentle, kind, big presence. He played Santa every year for 30 years and brought joy to countless children. One of his biggest loves in life was singing, and he was a previous member of the St. Louis Cathedral Archdiocesan Choir when they performed at the Vatican. Matt was a Fourth Degree Knight in the St. Ann Council of The Knights of Columbus and a devout Catholic. He's remembered as being warmhearted, generous, a great friend, and someone you wish were your brother or son or uncle.
Beverly Lynn Long
Beverly Lynn Long of Godfrey IL died from COVID-19 after a month-long battle on November 13 at the age of 65. Beverly retired from a dedicated career as a manager at the IRS, where she helped and mentored her team to do their best. She was enjoying retirement with her husband of 45 years and spending more time with their grandkids. She's remembered for being sweet but strong.
Dwontreze Terrell Lovett
Dwontreze Lovett died of COVID-19 in August at the age of 29. He worked as a barber and raised bull dogs as Co-Op Bully Kennels.
He had a high fever which he went to the emergency room for, and never left the hospital. Nine days later getting admitted, Dwontreze passed away of pneumonia caused by the coronavirus.
Dwontreze is deeply missed by the love of his life, Tia who he'd just married in February, his mother, his 5 year old daughter, extended family, and friends. His passing leaves a hole in the St. Louis community and in potential friends he never made because his life was cut short.
Thomas “Tom” Lovis
Thomas “Tom” Lovis died from respiratory complications of COVID-19 and Alzheimer's related health issues on December 5, 2020. He was in his 90s and living and being cared for at the Sheridan at Laumeier Park the last few years of his life. Tom grew up in Indianapolis and went to Indiana School for the Deaf. had a long career in printing, finally ending up at the St. Louis Post Dispatch where he worked from 1969 until his retirement in 1982. Tom and his late wife Joan Mae Lewis raised two daughters and a son together, which they brought up in the Baptist faith. After retiring Tom switched from working as a part time pastor at Bethany Baptist Church of the Deaf to being the full time pastor until the church closed in 2011.
Michael Madison
Michael Madison of Freeburg IL died of COVID-19 complications at the age of 68 on November 16, 2020. His wife got to go into his room and hold his hand and say goodbye to him at Belleville Memorial Hospital. Michael was enjoying retirement with his adoring wife of 8 years, and finally getting to take a break from working so hard his whole life. He served in the US Military and his faith was important to his personal strength and life.
James P. Mannion Jr.
James P. Mannion Jr. died on December 3rd, 2020 in his home after a short battle with COVID-19 at the age of 90. Jim served two years overseas in The Navy in Japan during the Korean War. He ended up getting his JD from St. Louis University Law School after obtaining his undergrad at the University of Notre Dame. He ultimately specialized in labor relations and worked his way up to partner at Bryan, Cave, McPheters, and McRoberts, retiring in 1990. More than his accomplished career, James loved his family. His first wife's untimely death from cancer left him raising their four young children alone, but in 1978 James found love again in Kathleen, blending their families into a happy chaos of 8 kids. Jim had a "profound" love of reading and history, which he passed on to his kids. Jim and Kathleen traveled widely and he got to explore book stores and follow his passion for history all over the world.
Howard W. Marshall
Howard Marshall passed of COVID-19 on April 10, 2020 in his room at Frontier Health and Rehabilitation in St. Charles. Although he had Alzheimers and couldn't use the phone by himself, he still recognized his family and used a wheelchair to get around.
Howard Marshall belonged to the Carpenter’s Union Local #1310 and worked installing floors until his retirement. He loved watching documentaries, fishing, working on his car, and helping his friends out. He was known for being a gentle, kind, man. He's missed deeply by his children, stepchildren, extended family, and large circle of friends.
Thomas J. Martin Jr.
Thomas Martin Jr. of Lonedell in Franklin County MO died of COVID-19 on December 12, 2020 at the age of 74.
Tom grew up in St. Louis County and joined the Army right after Highschool during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, Tom started as a salesman for a food distribution business. He worked his way up, while raising a three kids with his wife, and eventually managed several food distributorships. Tom loved his faith and took joy in all kinds of outdoors activities, whether hunting, fishing, hiking or just mowing his yard. Most of all, Tom loved his kids and his grandkids, and took lots of pride in being a wonderful husband and father.
Grace and Richard Maskell – died 9 days apart of COVID-19
Grace E. Maskell passed away from COVID-19 on May 6, 2020. Richard F. Maskell, followed her 9 days later on May 15, also of COVID-19. Grace was 94 and Richard was 97. They were married 72 years.
Frank Massey
Frank Massey, passed of COVID-19 on April 17, 2020 five days after his 68th birthday. He had been married 20 years and had seven children. Frank's grieving wife gave an emotional interview with News Channel 5 on Your Side on April 18th: "I want people to know that coronavirus is not a joke. It is not a hoax and it is definitely not fake news because I'm living the nightmare," Cynthia said.
Bruce R. Mausshardt
Bruce R. Mausshardt died of COVID-19 on April 20, 2020 at the age of 68 years old. A keyboardist, piano player, and all around musician since he first learned to tickle the ivories at 5 years old, Bruce had played in several bands over the years. He also loved everything about St. Louis from with his favorites being World Wide Magazine, Forest Park, Elicia’s pizza, and Mom’s Deli. Bruce suffered from Alzheimer's the past 11 years but could respond to his favorite songs, "air piano", and mouth out the words.
Michelle McCausland (Michael Shreves)
Michelle McCauseland (Michael Shreves) died of COVID-19 on November 28, 2020 at the age of 61. Performing was her life's true passion, and Michelle was truly a St. Louis entertainment and LGBTQ+ institution. She never made it to Broadway like the fantasies of her youth, instead she created magic and shined bright in St. Louis. Michelle supported friends and strangers alike in their struggles, a trusted and respected pillar of empathy and strength. She loved her fans and community and they loved her back.
Kenneth Ray McCuistion
Kenneth "Ken" Ray McCuiston died of COVID-19 on December 10th at the age of 75 after a short battle with the virus. Ken served in the Navy during Vietnam and had a daughter who preceded him in death several years ago. He worked as a printer at PrintPack for over 30 years. Ken's life had many challenges, but he was very much loved by his tight circle of friends and family and he is remembered for having a good heart.
Billie “Jack” McDermott
Billie "Jack" McDermott of Bethalto Illinois died of COVID-19 after a lengthy battle with the virus on September 4, 2020 at Alton Memorial Hospital. He was 81.Billie proudly served our country in the National Guard and retired from Laclede Steel after 42 years as an electrician. He was a member of the United Steel Workers Union and served as a shop steward for many years. He was a lifetime Democrat and a member of various Church of Christ churches. Especially in his retirement, Billie enjoyed watching his grandsons in their sports, spending time at Lake of the Ozarks, fishing, family pets, and watching old westerns. Billie McDermott is missed deeply by his wife of 59 years, his two children, grandchildren, family, extended family and all his friends.
Tyrone “Squeaky” McDonald
As written: "Tyrone McDonald, age 59 years old born October 23, 1960 died August 12, 2020 at Barnes Hospital from Covid19. He was my 81 year old mother’s caretaker. We all loved him and misses him tremendously. He was a great son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Even though he was a quiet natured person, everyone looked to him for answers. My mom still wishes that he would walk through the front door. He will forever be in our hearts and memories."
Carl Edward McLittle Jr.
Carl Edward McLittle Jr. passed of COVID-19 on May 17, 2020 at the age of 74. He was a Vietnam War veteran, a loving father and grandfather, and a lifelong learner.
He's missed deeply by his family, friends, and all those who knew him.
Ursula Milla – master seamstress
Ursula Miller died of COVID-19 complications on April 15, 2020 at age 94. She'd immigrated from Germany in 1951 and loved sharing her heritage with friends and the neighborhood. She was a devoted mother and is missed by her extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Richard C. Mintzlaff
Richard "Dick" Mintzlaff died of COVID-19 on November 11, 2020 at the age of 77. Dick worked with the St. Louis ARC for over 25 years, was an avid participant in community theater and Renaissance Faires, and did his best to live by his morals. He was also very active at his church (Zion Lutheran Church in Maryland Heights) writing Sunday school curriculum, singing in the choir, serving as an elder, and helping out in countless other ways. He would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need, and he's remembered as being inclusive and welcoming to new people in his social and work spheres. Dick loved being a husband to his late wife and a father to his two girls more than anything.
Barbara Ann Molloy
Barbara Ann Molloy died after a brief battle with COVID-19 on November 10, 2020 at OSF St. Anthony’s Health Center in Alton IL at the age of 80. Barbara worked for many years as a nursing home administrator and was known as a cheerful caring person with an infectious laugh who never met a stranger. She loved telling a good story and bringing a smile to peoples' faces. In Barb’s honor, her family urges continued social distancing and mask compliance.
Velma Moody – Maxine Waters Sister
Velma Moody, died at Grand Manor Nursing And Rehabilitation on May 1 of COVID-19. She was 86. She was a wonderful friend and older sister to California State Representative Maxine Waters.
Jerry Mooneyham
Jerry Mooneyham died at Missouri Baptist Hospital on January 9, 2021 from complications from COVID-19 at the age of 86. He married his highschool sweetheart and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War on board the USS Mount McKinley.
Jason Moss
Jason Moss died from complications of COVID-19 on January 20, 2021 at the age of 52. His body had cleared the coronavirus, but could not recover from the devastating effects of the disease. It was up and down for a long time, with 49 days on ECMO and almost two months on a ventilator. He fought hard but suffered from two strokes in his brain, and his body shut down for the last time. Jason grew up in Collinsville IL, traveled the world in the Navy, then came back to St. Louis and graduated from St. Louis University with a bachelor's degree. He most recently worked administration and analysis for a local hospital. His pride and joy of his life was his three sons, triplets, born in 2005. He was a Boy Scout Leader and poured his heart into being the best father in the world.
Dr. Ruth Louise Beckmann Murray, EdD, MSN, RN, CS, N-NAP, DAPA
Dr. Ruth Louise Beckmann Murray passed from complications of COVID-19 and pneumonia on June 25, 2020. Her 40 year career in the nursing department at St. Louis University included roles as a Program Coordinator, Psychiatric-Mental Health Professor for Undergraduate & Graduate Nursing Education, and textbook author. Dr. Ruth Beckmann Murray inspired and guided thousands of nursing students in their professional paths as Nurses, helped thousands more in her various other helping roles, and reached countless through her publications and community advocacy. She mentored and profoundly touched many lives personally, as the memories posted on her obituary describe. Her vibrancy, kindness, and love are missed far beyond her immediate and extended family.
Dr. Deborah Kantor Nagler, educational technologist
Deborah Nagler grew up in St. Louis and Kansas City and attended Washington University for her undergraduate studies. She died of COVID-19 on April 3 at the age of 66 in Teaneck New Jersey. Deborah was a great mind and accomplished in STEM education and active lifelong in Jewish education.As the St. Louis Jewish Light concluded: "Deborah’s leadership and great love for her family will continue to reach people who may never even know her name, but will live, love, and succeed because of her."
Donna Lynn Schroen Naylor
Donna Schroen Naylor of Bethalto Illinois died of COVID-19 on December 11, 2020 at the age of 70. She caught the novel coronavirus in November and passed soon after. Donna was a retired teacher, having touched countless young lives for 33 years in Cottage Hills and Bethalto East. She received her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in education from Southern Illinois University, and was continually enriching her mind by reading books and learning. Donna never had her own children, and poured her love into her school kids, fur babies, and volunteer work. She and her late husband shared a passion for therapy dogs, which they'd take to local nursing homes. Long before COVID-19 hit, Donna knew the importance of making sure that families don't go hungry; you could find her every Thursday at The House of Victory Food Pantry ministering, praying with, and giving groceries to those in need. She continued this volunteer work through the pandemic, until becoming sick herself from COVID. Donna is remembered as being one of the most cheerful people that anyone could possibly meet. "You could count on her to laugh at your feeblest joke and enthusiastically cheer your slightest success."
Diane Bode Dinges Neukam
Diane Bode Dinges Neukam died of COVID-19 on December 12, 2020 at Belleville Memorial Hospital at the age of 70, with her children at her side. Diane had three children with her first husband and loved being a mom and then a grandma. She co-founded Kid’s Kloset before becoming a medical transcriptionist for Belleville Memorial Hospital and eventually retiring from Oncology Care Center in Swansea. Diane loved to travel anywhere there was a beach and sun - to a lake resort or Caribbean! She also loved shopping, dining out with good friends, seeing live music, and gardening. People, laughter, and love mattered most to her and Diane was the type who never knew a stranger, making many lifelong friends from chance encounters.
Mr. Theodore M. Norman Jr.
Theodore M. Norman Jr. passed from COVID-19 on the morning of April 7, 2020 at the age of 63. He had recently celebrated his 25th anniversary with the love of his life, Lynette; and had been retired for just 9 months from his career as a Foundry Lead man and union shop steward.
Read on for his daughter's moving tribute...
Robert “Bob” Olsheske
Robert “Bob” Olsheske died from complications of COVID-19 on November 30, 2020 two days after his 86th birthday. In recent years, due to dementia, he was living at St. Andrews at Francis Place Nursing Home in Eureka where he really loved the staff and other residents.
Bob's career was in sales, with most of it in the bread business. He distributed Pepperidge Farms, Taystee, and Brownberry at different times. He married his first wife and raised his two kids in Wentzville. After her untimely death, he moved to Florida and remarried. Bob was heavily involved in his church and in giving back to the community, helping to secure funding and mentoring special needs children for Carpenter’s House for Children in Florida. After his second wife passed, he moved back to Wentzville to be close to his adult kids and grandkids. Bob was the last surviving member of his immediate family and truly cherished his children and grandkids.
Bill and Pat Olwig married 60 years, died less than an hour apart of COVID-19
Bill and Pat Olwig built a long and fulfilling life full of love together, starting in 1959. They would have celebrated 61 years of marriage together later in May 2020, but instead they both passed away from COVID-19 within about 40 minutes of each other on May 1st.
Mrs. Evelyn Otis
Mrs. Evelyn Otis passed from COVID-19 complications in O'Fallon Illinois on April 28. She was 74 years old.
Evelyn retired from Touchette Regional Hospital in Centreville IL in late 2017 and was finally enjoying retirement. She was known for enthusiastically living life to the fullest, and loved cooking, fishing, and her family.
She's missed by her 3 adult kids, her elderly mother, two brothers, six grandchildren, and lots of extended family and friends.
Helen Therese Pagel
Helen Therese Pagel of Ellisville, MO died from complications of COVID-19 and congestive heart disease on December 15, 2020 at the age of 93 at Missouri Baptist Hospital. Helen was raised in Milwaukee and met her late husband while working as a night clerk at the rail road. They started and ran Brown Mill Tavern and Cafe on the upper Michigan peninsula for 21 years while they raised their six children. Helen was incredibly proud that all her kids worked at the family business and went on to graduate college. Her and Roy enjoyed 52 years of marriage until his death in 2006. She was known for her wide range of artistic talents, from sketching graphics for her kids' science projects to sewing costumes and tailoring clothing. For the past two years, Helen lived in an assisted care facility being visited as often as possible by her large family and watching reruns of her favorite TV shows (The Lawrence Welk Show and Gunsmoke). A devout Catholic, she attended Mass as long as she was physically able to.
Jimmie Allen Palmer
Jimmie Allen Palmer of Collinsville, IL died December 16, 2020 at Mercy Hospital from COVID-19 related complications at the age of 79. Jimmie was a retired carpenter millwright, enjoying retirement with his wife of 62 years. He loved nothing more than a good bargain, and was a daily visitor to Pawn King in Collinsville. Jimmie was also passionate about classic cars (especially his blue Challenger), playing golf, spending time with his family, and laughing. He coached his four kids' baseball and sports and had a blast being a father, and even more fun being a granddad and great granddad.
Larry Darnell Parker Sr.
Larry Darnell Parker Sr. passed of COVID-19 on July 24, 2020. He was a 62 year old retired Navy Veteran and married for 43 years. When he died, Larry was still a machinist for GKN Aerospace (formerly Boeing), where he had worked for 37 years.Larry loved golf, jazz concerts, and traveling with his wife... but what he loved more than anything was spending time with his grandchildren. Larry Darnell Parker St. leaves behind his brokenhearted wife, four children, seven grandchildren, and is missed dearly by his family and many friends.
Carol Junior “CJ” Parkinson
Carol Junior "CJ" Parkinson died of complications from COVID-19 on April 30, 2020. He was 80 years old. CJ grew up in Iowa, graduating college and going on to become a memorable band teacher. He moved to St. Louis in the early 80s with his second wife and retired after managing a local health food store. Carol Parkinson is missed by his daughter, sisters, nephews, former band students, and countless friends that he made both in St. Louis and Iowa.
Harry Arthur Pilcher
Harry Arthur Pilcher died on May 29th, 2020 in St. Louis, MO after contracting COVID-19. He was 88 years old. He was born in Junction City, Kansas on July 15th, 1938. Harry is missed by his great grandchildren, grandchildren, and three daughters.
Marvin Louis Platt
Marvin Louis Platt died of COVID-19 on April 10, 2020. He was 93. Marvin saw being a businessman and family man as all the same, and excelled at both loving his family and succeeding in business. Marvin devoted the last few years of his life caring for his wife of 68 years after she became afflicted with dementia. He is dearly missed by his four adult children, seven grandchildren, wife, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Eleanor Podolski
Eleanor Podolski died of COVID-19 on December 26, 2020 at the age of 90.
Ellie was known for her contagious laugh, bubbly personality, and love of learning and new experiences. She and her husband Stanley raised two sons and a daughter, and she also helped run the family store (Podolski's Market). Ellie was a member of Polish Falcons Nest 45, where she was a Legion of Honor Bronze and Silver Star of Merit recipient and also a member of the Polish American Cultural Society. In her later years, she lovingly cared for her husband of 67 years as he suffered from dementia until his death in 2017.
In her obituary her family wrote, "Please say a prayer for Eleanor and please get vaccinated."
Lawrence F. Pranger
Lawrence “Larry” Pranger, of Jerseyville IL, passed away on December 29, 2020 at Jersey Community Hospital from complications related to COVID-19 at the age of 82. Larry attended Illinois State University and was drafted to serve in the Army during the Vietnam War. He married the love of his life while on leave the day after Christmas in 1961. Larry worked for Shell Oil Company in Jerseyville as he and his wife Mary Ann raised their four kids. He was a gifted coach and regularly led youth teams at St. Francis Xavier School to championships in track, baseball, football, and basketball. He and his late wife also took very active roles in raising their grandkids and helping out in their parish, attending mass every Saturday night.
Gloria Fay Prince
Gloria Fay Prince died from COVID-19 related pneumonia on November 29, 2020 at the age of 90. The wonderful staff at The Glen at Aberdeen Heights (in Kirkwood MO) where she lived the last several years were at her side when she passed, so she did not die alone. Fay was a graduate of Normandy High School where she played field hockey and participated in the modern dance troupe. She married her late husband Jack in 1949 and supported his advertising career as it took them to different cities around the country and they raised their four children. Fay was described as being the "consummate homemaker": a Girl Scout Leader. church volunteer, with hobbies that included needlepoint, sewing, quilting and cooking.
Elizabeth Quinn
Elizabeth Quinn, a WWII military veteran from England who emigrated as a war bride and made St. Louis her home, died of complications from COVID-19 on November 13, 2020 at the age of 94. According to her obituary, "During WWII, she joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service in 1943 at age 18, serving at Bletchley Park with the codebreakers..."
Elizabeth had a lifelong love of reading, serving as librarian on the first St. Louis County bookmobile in 1948-49 after the birth of her son, and working as a librarian for 35 more years until she retired. In her later years Elizabeth was still an avid reader and used the library's mobile services, coming very full circle when her photo was placed on the side of a new bookmobile.
St. Louis Covid Death: Arnette M. (Laury) Reeg
Arnette Reeg died on Saturday, April 13, of COVID-19. She was 87. The assisted care facility she lived for four years went into lockdown in mid-March, so her family who had previously visited her every single day could not be with her except on the phone. Arnette spent the last 8 days of her life alone and confused in her bed at the hospital.
Polly Reichrath
Polly Reichrath passed away of COVID-19 on April 28. She had no family except a cousin, but her friend Cecelia was able to put on personal protective equipment and stay in the hospital with her that last day and night to comfort her.
Polly is missed by her close circle of friends and all those whose days she brightened with her warm smile.
Patricia Ann Retter
Patricia Ann Retter, of Jerseyville, Illinois, lost her battle with COVID-19 on December 10, 2020 at the age of 86 at Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis. Patricia was the beloved wife of Reverend Edwin Retter and together they raised two daughters while serving in the Nazarene ministry. She liked collecting snowmen, doing crossword puzzles, crocheting, and helping out friends. Patricia was the family matriarch and always quick with a kind word and listening ear.
Gene Rice
Gene Rice of Waterloo Illinois died of COVID-19 on April 6, 2020. He was Monroe County's first known death from COVID-19.
As one of his friends posted on Facebook: "Another reminder that this is real and affects all of us in a crushing way. I encourage everyone who knew Gene to pay him tribute in death and wear a mask and save lives. ?"
Gene Rice is missed deeply by Nancy his wife of 63 years, his children and extended family, his family friends who were like family to him, his church family, and anyone who was lucky enough to know him in any way.
Juanita Rice
Juanita Rice died of COVID-19 on August 12 at the age of 94. Juanita genuinely loved people and opened her home to those in need. Through trying to make this world a little better, she taught countless others how to love and to not give up hope, just keep on fighting and believing for a miracle ‘till the end. Faced with hardship in her own life, it only gave her more empathy, and she truly consistently lived her values. She would do anything to help family, a friend or an acquaintance if they needed her. She never gave up!
Rosemarie Richardson
Rosemarie Richardson, formerly of Union, died at a nursing home in Washington MO on July 16, 2020, of COVID-19. She was 79 years old. Rosemarie lived her whole life in the Washington-Union area, and worked at St. John's Mercy Hospital for 37 years. She was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary in Washington and her friends admired her warm wit. Even in the nursing home, she was active and enjoyed trivia and participating in many activities. She's missed by her remaining family, and by the friends she made at the nursing home, and everyone who was lucky enough to know her on this side of life.
Dr. William G. Ridgeway, M.D. Ophthalmologist for over 40 years
Dr. William Ridgeway served two years in the US Air Force as a flight surgeon with the rank of Captain before completing his residency in ophthalmology at Washington University. He decided he loved St. Louis, put down roots here, and served three generations of patients as an ophthalmologist in St. Louis and South St. Louis County. He died of COVID-19 on April 24, 2020.
Mary Ellen Roarty
Mary Ellen Roarty died from complications of COVID-19 on April 14, 2020. She was 90 years old and living at Garden Place Senior Living In Columbia, IL. Mary and her husband Joe raised their family in Belleville, IL, where they owned Joe’s Bonafide Service Station.
When Joe passed (several years ago), Mary moved from their home to Garden Place Senior Living. They were supposed to move in together, but he passed away before the move. Although she was heartbroken from the loss of her husband of 69 years, she embraced her new home. Mary made many friends and was loved by the staff. She became part of the Garden Place Gals singing group and performed the National Anthem at a Grizzlies baseball game.
William “Bill” C. Robertson
William "Bill" C. Robertson of Fosterburg, Illinois died from COVID-19 on Sept. 9, 2020 at Alton Memorial Hospital. He was 88 years old and left behind his wife and soulmate of 64 years.Bill was an Airforce veteran and worked at Albrecht Hamlin Chevrolet until he retired in 1996. Bill was an active member of Fosterburg Baptist Church for the last 56 years, serving as Deacon and Trustee. He also taught Sunday school and vacation bible school, and always had candy to give to the kids.
Bill C. Roberts is deeply missed by his wife Virginia, their son and daughter, grand-kids, and great-grandkids. His church family misses him terribly.
Lamar Rodgers
Lamar had just turned 81 on March 18, 2020. Due to COVID-19 this was the first time ever his family was not with him to celebrate his special day. Lamar was diagnosed with COVID-19 around June 15th and lost the battle on June 30, 2020.
Lamar enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. His family meant the world to him, he was the oldest son of nine and he wore that title well. He was known to everyone as brother and he never met a stranger.