Gene Thornhill Eugene “Gene” Thornhill, of Saint Peters, MO, died Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on April 15, 1939, in Troy, Missouri, Gene lived a life of care and craft. He loved woodworking, fishing, his family and God. He met his lifelong wife, Lorita, when he started driving her downtown to St. John’s Nursing School as a help to Rita’s father, because he attended Bailey Technical College nearby. They raised seven children together. Gene was an active member of Assumption Parish for almost 50 years. He was also involved in the Knights of Columbus Council at Assumption, earning the honor of Knight of the Year in 2014. He worked as an officer in the St. Vincent De Paul Society for many years helping those in need in the local community. Before retiring at age 53 to help care for his son Andrew, Gene was a field engineer for NCR Corporation, calling on local banks and businesses to repair equipment. Customers respected his work ethic, attention to detail and kind, friendly personality. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Gene was a loving husband of Lorita C. Thornhill for over 60 years; beloved son of the late John and Mary (Morek) Thornhill; devoted father of Stephen (Kimberly) Thornhill, Paula (Philip) Boeckmann, Matthew (Heather) Thornhill, Kenneth (Kim) Thornhill, David (Deborah), Thomas (Beth) and Andrew Thornhill; and proud grandfather of Lyndsey (Andrew), Garrett (Kayla), Zachary, James (Mallory), Mary, Henry, Martha, Sophia, LoLo, Rosalinda, Calvin, Phoebe, Zera, Benjamin, Alexander, Katelyn, Joseph, Jack, Abby and Max, as well as great grandchildren Luke, Daisy and Charlotte. Gene is preceded in death by his son, Andrew Thornhill, brothers Garrett and Robert Thornhill, and sisters Marcella Kuester and Bettie Lammert. Gene is survived by sisters Marian Schlenke and Evelyn Zalabak.
George Dames Former State Representative George Dames of O’ Fallon, Missouri, passed away early Sunday morning at his home surrounded by his family. He was 87 years old. He lived in the O’ Fallon area all his life and attended Assumption grade school and High school. George served for 22 years in the Missouri State Legislature and worked as a carpenter for over 50 years before retiring and was a member of O’ Fallon Lions Club and a Fouth Degree Knight with the Assumption Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus. In 1970 he married Millie Heppermann from Josephville and together they raised five children: Teri Dames of Aurora, Colorado, Tammy (the late Tom) Hobday of O’ Fallon, Missouri, Tony (Lori) Dames of St. Peters, Missouri, Tim (Lindsey) Dames of Jacksonville, Florida, and Tom (Debbie) Dames of Chesterfield, Missouri. He is survived by his wife, five children, eight grandchildren, one sister, Laura Mudd of Troy, Missouri and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Omer and Madeline Dames (nee: McAtee), four sisters and three brothers. George donated his body to St. Louis University. George will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Michael A Reesor Michael Allan Reesor, of O’Fallon, MO, passed away Saturday, December 7, 2024 at the age of 66. Beloved son of the late Paul and Aileen Reesor; devoted father of Jennifer (Patrick) Rosen; cherished grandfather of Bayley, Jameson, and William Rosen; dear brother of Timothy Reesor, Paula (Don) Sloan, and Maggi (Dennis) Best. Michael is also preceded in death by his son, Shawn Michael Reesor and sister-in-law, Doris (Prinster) Reesor. Michael dedicated his life to carpentry, he was a carpenter his whole life. He was an avid hunter and proud member of Ducks Unlimited, he also relished the moments he spent at the Cuivre Club. Michael was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Thomas (Tom O.) Owens passed peacefully from this life surrounded by family and the love of his life of 44 years, Julie Owens. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Joseph Owens and Margaret Ann (Kelleher) Owens. Siblings, Andrew Owens and Michael Owens. He is survived by his wife, Julie (Knott) Owens, daughter Annie Owens and son, Matthew Owens (Kelley Owens). Siblings, William Kelly Owens (Pat Owens), Mary (Owens) Creamer (Freddy Creamer), Anne (Owens) Holdmeyer (Denny Holdmeyer), John Owens (Christy Owens), and Peggy (Owens) Sobkoviak. Three grandchildren, Cameron, Adam, and Riley, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was a proud member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 for 43 years. He enjoyed reading, fishing, camping, slot machines, video poker, and spending time with his family. He was a lover of dogs. He also enjoyed building computers and engines. He was the real Macgyver, always able to solve any problem. He was very proud of his Irish heritage and upheld his family traditions. He loved to banter with friends and family about politics and life, always challenging you to think deeper. His witty, stubborn, and playful spirit will be missed by all that knew him.
Herman J. Mennemeyer, Jr, 95, O’Fallon, MO passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 of natural causes. Loving husband of 59 years to Kay Mennemeyer & 10 years to Dolores Lenger Mennemeyer. Dear Father of Marion Sachs (Scottsdale, AZ) & Bill Mennemeyer (O’Fallon, MO). Grandfather of Kate Knuth (Chicago, IL) and Elizabeth Pearson (Laguna Niguel, CA). Great Grandfather of Margo, Delilah, Vivian & Eleanor. Of Herman’s original 11 siblings, he is survived by his brother Martin Mennemeyer (wife Mary) of Old Monroe, MO and his sister MaryAnn Mennemeyer (husband Wayne Nations), of Ferguson, MO. As well as multiple nieces & nephews living in MO, ME, MN, NY, TX, CA, FL & AZ. Herman was a lifetime member of Assumption Catholic Church, loved fishing, dancing & St. Vincent DePaul Charities.
James “Jim” E. Giesmann, of O Fallon, MO, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at the age of 76. Beloved husband of Doris E. Giesmann; cherished son of Thelma and the late Damon Giesmann; devoted father of Craig (April) Giesmann and Chad (Miranda) Giesmann; loving grandfather of Jeffrey (Haley) Giesmann, Justin Giesmann, Joshua Giesmann, Ava Giesmann, Grant Giesmann and the late Cole Giesmann; dear brother of Sherry (Leroy) Meyer, Dennis (Pamela) Giesmann, Tina (Bob) Phillips, dear brother-in-law of Norma (the late Walter) Hoff, Bert (Gloria) Mueller, Larry (Sharon) Mueller, Martha (the late Gene) Fields and Brenda (Dennis) Maher; Jim was a beloved nephew, uncle, cousin and friend to many. Jim proudly and honorably served in the United States Army. He was a member of Assumption Catholic Church for over 50 years, Knights of Columbus – 3rd Degree – Council #2269 where he was selected knight of the year, and VFW Post #5077. He was actively involved in the larger civic community and was honored as Man of the Year by the City of O’Fallon in 1995. Jim loved hunting, fishing, scuba diving, and most of all traveling with the love of his life Doris. Jim was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Delmer L Carr Delmer Lee “Del” Carr of 49, passed away Tuesday afternoon, August 6, 2024 at his home in O’Fallon. Born October 22, 1974 in Troy, MO, he was the son of Joseph Eugene and Linda Sue Read Carr. Del worked as a finance manager. He was united in marriage on June 1, 2002 in Old Monroe to Debra Leigh Vivion. Del was a member of Assumption Catholic Church in O’Fallon, where he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus-O’Fallon Council #2269. Del loved the outdoors and would often spend his time hunting, playing golf, boating and swimming. He was an avid sports fan, especially Mizzou, Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Blues. Del was a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation and a proud supporter of Missouri Disabled Sportsmen. Del was preceded in death by his father, Joe Carr. Survivors include his beloved wife, Debra Carr of O’Fallon; and his mother, Linda Carr of Old Monroe. Del also leaves his brother, David Carr and his wife, San Juana, of Arlington, TX; his mother-in-law, Teresa Vivion of O’Fallon; his sister-in-law, Jill Reichle and her husband, Mike, of Spring, TX; several nieces, nephews, his godchildren, other relatives and many friends.
March 26, 1946 — June 9, 2025 O'Fallon Bill Thomas, aged 79, of O’Fallon, MO, passed away on June 9, 2025, after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on March 26, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan to his late parents Burnice and Hortense (Cozart) Thomas. The family relocated to Pigot, Arkansas, and subsequently to Qulin, Missouri where Bill grew up, attended school, and worked on his family’s cotton farm. He married and moved with his young family to St. Louis in 1965, where he was employed with the railroad, retiring in 2006 after 41 years of dedicated service. A lifelong supporter of the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals, Bill had a passion for sports, traveling, exercising, working on puzzles, playing Euchre with friends, and maintaining his well-kept yard and flowers. His fondness for flowers was widely recognized. He never met a flower he didn’t like and often rescued many from the Clearance Bin. Bill enjoyed meeting with his railroad buddies and sharing stories. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2269 and Assumption Catholic Church, where he fostered many friendships. Bill is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 23 years, Jeanette Koechner; three daughters: Kim (Glen) Longhibler of Arnold, MO, Cynthia Anderson of Poplar Bluff, MO, and Jackie (Paul) O’Rourke of O’Fallon, MO; two sons: Jeffrey Thomas of Arnold, MO, and Jeremey (Rochelle) Thomas of Chicago, IL; one brother: Danny (Iris) Thomas of Palmyra, TN; two sisters: JoAnn (Charles) Hall of Ballwin, MO, and Bettina (Ben Smith) Johnson of FL; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were siblings J.B. Thomas, Shirley Whalen, Jack Thomas, and James Thomas. Even though our hearts are broken, we know he and Molly, his favorite fur baby, are once again enjoying their daily walk.
December 3, 1945 — June 8, 2025 St. Peters, Missouri Robert “Bob” Frank Lepping, age 79, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Beloved husband of Judith Kay Lepping, Bob was the cherished son of the late Frank and Irene Lepping. He was a devoted father to Brian (Alicia) Lepping and the late Rob (Laura) Lepping, a proud grandfather to Alex (Morgan) Braun and Nicole Lepping, and a treasured great-grandfather to Robert, Everett, and Emmalyn. Bob found deep joy and fulfillment on his beloved farm, where his love for the outdoors came to life. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, and watching the birds gather at his many feeders. Loyal companions Angus and Toby, his beloved dogs, were always by his side—as was his ever-present jug of Diet Coke. Known affectionately as the family’s unofficial “sweets dealer,” Bob was always ready with a donut or a piece of candy. His quick wit, infectious humor, and fiercely competitive game nights will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. And if you served him dinner, you knew better than to forget his dish towel. Bob proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks. Per his wishes, no formal service will be held, but a celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Though he is no longer with us, Bob's strong spirit, love of nature, and unwavering love for his family will remain forever in our hearts.
https://www.baue.com/obituaries/robert-frank-leppingip Koechner (James/Jim) passed away peacefully on August 18th, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was 81. Tip’s life can be best encapsulated by 3 “F” words: Family, Friends, and Fun … and in his 81 years he experienced an absolute abundance of each. Tip was born to Joe and Lela Koechner on February 15, 1944 and grew up as the youngest of 9 in Tipton, Missouri. In 1963 he moved to St. Charles, Missouri and started his career as a truck driver for a lumber company and it is also where he earned his first nickname, “Flash.” He was known as Flash because he was constantly moving and never in one place for long … it described him well. Continuing his career and the ability of dropping trusses on a dime, he moved to O’Fallon, Missouri in 1968 and started his employment with O’Fallon Lumber. It is there that he soon became known as “Tip” (referencing his hometown) and is also where he retired from in 1998, marking 35 years in the Teamsters Union. Tip was extremely hard-working and you never had to ask him twice to do anything. In fact, he was extreme in almost everything he did. He loved fiercely. He could party like a rock star. And he had 2 speeds … On and Off. He truly was The Man of Action, another well-deserved moniker. If you didn’t know Tip, you can almost guarantee you know someone who did. Tip truly seemed to know everybody and when you needed something, you could go to Tip because he also “had a guy” for everything! His circle of friends was extensive and you couldn’t go anywhere with him without running into someone who knew him – even when across the globe! Tip married Jeanette Lang in 1964, and while their lives took them down different paths after spending 34 years together, they remained close until the end. Tip and Jeannette had one daughter, Jackie, who he thought could hang the moon. In some ways, just like him, she has a hard time sitting still … except for in his heart … because since the day she was born, from there she never moved. Tip wasn’t one to sit down and offer hours of fatherly advice, but rather taught by example … sometimes maybe questionable … but truly gave her a great example of “living” life. Tip met Christine Joyce (who he affectionally renamed, “Pumpkin”) in 2001 and they joyfully created numerous cherished memories. Together they enjoyed many fun and friend-filled trips, as well as hours of social gatherings at the weekly meetings in “The Office.” Tip was simple and didn’t ask for anything fancy … except for when it came to his truck. He enjoyed the bling and you could see him coming … the more chrome the better! There were some things that truly energized Tip … one of those being the opportunity to help. Whether by doing or giving, Tip was always right there. The other thing that elated Tip was making someone smile, or even better, laugh. It genuinely fed his soul. There are absolutely countless things that could be said about Tip – but the most sincere one is that he will be missed. Tip is survived by his daughter, son-in-law, and 3 grandsons: Jackie, Paul, Hunter, Nolan and Spencer O’Rourke. Also surviving is Christine Joyce, dear friend; Jeanette Koechner, former wife; brother, Virgil Koechner, of Tipton, Missouri and sister, Della Mallen, of Plattsburg, Missouri; an expansive number of nieces, nephews, and their families; and many other family and friends. Also left behind and notably important are his adored cats, Leo and Norbert – whose treat offerings will substantially be diminished. Tip is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Lela Koechner; brothers Leo, Norbert, Melvin, and Cecil; sisters Evelyn Gerke and Annetta Koechner and a few other well-loved (and well-fed) cats - Fred, Felix, and Oscar. Tip’s love for life will be honored with a celebration, Cheers over Tears, on Sunday, September 21st, from 2pm-6pm at the O’Fallon Elks Lodge. We’d love to see you!
