Celsus Henry Stegeman

Celsus Henry Stegeman, 87, of Folk, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital.

He was born August 6, 1936, in Folk, Missouri, the son of August and Olivia (Wilde) Stegeman.

Celsus served in the United States Army following his school years.

On May 15, 1965, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rich Fountain, he married Joan Sophia Grellner who survives.

Celsus began his journey into the world of work at Tweedie Footwear, before embarking on a life-long career as a farmer.  He dedicated himself to being a dairy farmer, a beef and hog farmer, and found great joy in cutting hay and feeding his cattle.  Remarkably, his commitment to the land endured until he reached the impressive age of 84 years old.

Throughout his farming years, Celsus demonstrated remarkable entrepreneurship by co-owning and operating both L&S Farms and L&S Welding.

In more recent times, Celsus devoted himself to the tender care of his beloved wife, giving her love and support when she needed it most.

Beyond his work and family life, Celsus found solace in leisurely pursuits.  Fishing on the tranquil back waters of the Osage River brought him a sense of peace, while hunting provided an outlet for his adventurous spirit.  Additionally, he shared Missouri's collective pride by playing baseball and softball himself, as well as being an ardent supporter of all local sports teams including the St. Louis Cardinals.

Survivors include his wife, Joan Stegeman, Folk; two sons, Randy (Cindy) Stegeman, Folk; Danny (Kris) Stegeman, Folk; four grandchildren, Ashley Zimmer, Eric Stegeman, Gina Stegeman, Dani Stegeman; and two siblings, Marietta Schaefer, Loose Creek; and Margie (Conrad) Haslag, Loose Creek.

He was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings, Francis (Mary) Stegeman, Gene (Martha) Stegeman, Dorothy (Ferd) Rustemeyer, Norma (Charles) Sandbothe, Lydia (Ray) Luecke, Ralph Stegeman; and a brother-in-law, Francis Schaefer.

Visitation will be 9-11:30 a.m. Monday, January 8, 2024, at Trimble Funeral Homes – Westphalia.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 12:30 p.m. Monday at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Folk with the Rev. James Finder officiating.

Burial with military honors will be in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Cemetery or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Westphalia.     trimblefunerals.com