Theodore A. Kaminski died on February 7, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him. A man of quiet strength, service, and devotion to family, Theodore lived a life defined by duty, integrity, love and having a good time.
He was the beloved husband of Vivian Kaminski (née Knauer). He was a wonderful and devoted father to his daughters, Stephanie Kaminski Fulsom (Matt) and Jennifer Kaminski Magnus (Adam), and stepfather to Dena Raney (Robert) and the late Billy Sprock. Dear brother of Dennis Kaminski and brother in law to Georgia Kaminski. Theodore took great pride in his role as a grandfather to Allison, Natalie and Charlie Deterding, and Julius Furlow, each of whom brought him immense joy.
He was also a favorite uncle, great uncle, cousin, and friend to many.
Theodore was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore A. Kaminski Sr. and Elizabeth A. Kaminski and his dear cousin, Jeannie Heck.
He was more than a role model to his family, he was a hero.
A Vietnam War Veteran, Theodore proudly served his country in the United States Navy on the USS Cone. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to protecting and serving others through a distinguished 30-year career with the St. Louis County Police Department, retiring as a detective with a triple digit badge number. His dedication to public service left a lasting impact on his daughters, colleagues and the community he served.
He was a devoted member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPO Elks) and proudly served as a former Exalted Ruler, a role that reflected his deep commitment to fellowship, charity, and service.
Above all, Theodore was a family man with a great sense of humor. He loved telling jokes, sharing stories from his life, and bringing laughter to every room he entered. His grandchildren especially cherished the magic tricks he performed for them— moments that will forever live on in their hearts.
Theodore also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He was a longtime member of the Missouri Botanical Garden and also loved the St Louis Zoo, places that reflected his love of gardening and where he delighted in the beauty of nature and wildlife.
He was a devoted fan of St. Louis Cardinals Baseball and loved attending games whenever he could. When he wasn’t at the ballpark, he could often be found relaxing on his patio with Viv, listening to Cardinals games on the radio and enjoying his beautiful flowers and Talavera pottery—content, at ease, and exactly where he loved to be.
Theodore will be remembered for his steady presence, kind heart, quick wit, all the hilarious jokes and the laughter he so freely shared. His legacy lives on in the stories told, the lovely flowers grown in his yard and the love of family and friends who will miss him dearly.
SERVICES: Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123) on Thursday, February 12, 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. and on Friday, February 13, 10:00 a.m. until funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Backstoppers appreciated.