In loving memory of Fred L. Kolkhorst, who went to be with the Lord at the age of 92 years, 10 months and 6 days.
Beloved son of the late Fred August and Adele Charlotte Kolkhorst (nee Sommerkamp). Dear brother of the late Gladys B. Staehlin (nee Kolkhorst). Loving husband for 65 years to Betty J. Kolkhorst (nee Taylor). Loving father to Barbara (the late Dan) Sigler, Nancy (Scott) Barnes, Judy (Don) Pavlacic and Fred W. Kolkhorst.
Loving grandfather to Lindsay (Andrew) DuCharme, Jimmy Barnes, Melanie (Josh) Janisse, Jeffrey (Kayla) Barnes, Evan (fiancée Ana) Sigler, Jeff (fiancée Sara) Pavlacic, Kurt Sigler, Kevin Pavlacic and Jenna Pavlacic. Loving great-grandfather to Lily, Charlie, James, Gracie, and one great-grandbaby due in March. Loving uncle, cousin and friend.
Fred was born in St. Louis, Missouri, where he attended Garfield Elementary and Roosevelt High School. He attended Washington University where he obtained an associate degree in electrical engineering. He worked at Union Electric Company for 30 years in various positions, retiring in his last position as a project estimator.
Fred served in the United States Navy during the Korean War on the USS Sperry Submarine.
During his life, Fred enjoyed playing pinochle with his pinochle club, dancing with his wife Betty at the Casa Loma Ballroom where they first met, camping, fishing, traveling, reading, chess, playing golf with his friends, and playing dominoes every Monday with his family. He was a card shark even in his 90s when he taught his daughters to play hearts.
Thank you to St. Luke’s Home Care and Hospice. Caring for Fred in his home in Mehlville, Missouri, would not have been possible without the support of Patti French. Thank you, Patti, for providing loving care, and bringing smiles and joy to Fred’s final months.
Services at Kutis South County Chapel, 5255 Lemay Ferry Road: Visitation Wednesday, November 17, 4-8 p.m. and Funeral Thursday, November 18 at 1 p.m. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Missouri, 3501 Lansing Ave., Columbia, Missouri 65201.
Dear Betty, Barbara, Nancy, Judy, Fred and Family,
We are very saddened to hear that Junior has passed away and our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. As Junior’s cousin, I have known and called him that since I was a little girl so I hope it is okay. John and I have been living in Arizona for one and a half years now and I didn’t know that Junior had been ill. I always talk about my last visit with both of you and your son as I enjoyed it so much and wish I had made a return visit before we moved. I would never let a chance go by to dance a jitterbug with him as he was a terrific dancer and I will never forget his beautiful smile. Love, Ruth Ann and John
Fred’s family: we were very sad when we received the the call of his passing. And of all nights, the evening of his & Betty’s 65th Anniversary.
He was a great guy and made you feel better just being around him. Always had a smile on his face or just laughing Fred will be missed but not forgotten.
Dear Nancy and whole Kolkhorst Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know the past months have been very hard and stressful. I pray your dad is at peace.
Love you all
Aunt Betty, Nancy and Family, i’m soo sorry for this huge loss. Uncle Fred was one amazing man. Amazing husband, amazing father amazing grandfather and uncle. I’m soo sorry that Aidan and I cannot be there today and tomorrow to say our final goodbyes. We love you Uncle Fred, You were the Best!
Aunt Betty and Family we are sending you All our love, prayers and light to see you through.❤️
Warmly,
Angelique and Aidan