November 9, 1947- January 7, 2024
Survived by his wife of 45 years, Jeanne (née Campbell), his daughter, Bethany Henry, and his son in law, Eric Forrest Henry. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis E. Kehlenbrink and Wilma (née Diebold). He was a beloved husband, father, uncle, and friend.
James “Jim” Kelenbrink was born and raised in North St. Louis, near the grocery store his grandfather owned and operated, close to a church that still displays the name Kehlenbrink on its original stained glass. He attended Mercy High School and later, Southern Illinois University, where he met the love of his life, Jeanne. They raised their family in South St. Louis County and called Sappington their home for the last 32 years.
He worked as a travel agent at AAA for 36 years, a job that he loved. When not at work, Jim enjoyed traveling, gardening, remodeling, putting up Christmas lights, and celebrating Thanksgiving. He also had a lifelong love for trains. His greatest passions in life, by far, were his family and close circle of friends, for which he was constantly surrounded by and in constant contact with until the day he passed. Jim was a friend to all who knew him and will be dearly missed.
Services: Visitation Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Rd. St. Louis, Mo. 63123), Saturday, January 20th, 2024 from 12pm to 3pm; followed by a Memorial Service at 3pm.
Jim was a wonderful friend,full of laughter and concern for others.He will be missed by all of us who knew him for many years. My love and sympathy to Jeanne,Bethany and Forrest
Jim was a wonderful friend and co worker. He was a friend to everyone who knew him . My love and prayers Jeanne ,Bethane and Forrest. Jim will be greatly missed by all who knew him
Jim had a happy soul and a way about him that made me want to smile when I was around him. He was a great friend do my dad and our family. We will miss you Jimbo. All our love to Jeanne, Bethany and Forrest.
I worked with Jim several years at AAA. He was the nicest, most friendliest person I have ever had the pleasure to meet. He was a good friend and mentor. He will be missed. Blessings and prayers to Jeane, Bethany and Forrest.
Jim was a great friend. I met Jim when I worked at AAA many years ago. We had many good times together. I will miss our fishing trips to the Lake of the Ozarks and dinner at Rizzos. Rest well my good friend. Jeanne and Bethany my thoughts are with you.
Nancy and Rick
Jim was not only a great friend, but I count him as my closest friend. Jim and I, and my wife Kathie, go back to our freshmen year in high school. Not only was Jim the best man at our wedding, my wife (of nearly 56 years) and I start dating after attending a party at Jim’s house. We will surely miss Jim, but he will remain in our hearts forever. Jeanne and Bethany our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Dear Jeanne and Bethany,
I just learned of Jim’s passing from my niece Eileen. I first met Jim while he and my brother Dennis were still in college. He was a warm, caring and wonderful human being with a great sense of humor. I’m so glad that I got to speak with him on the phone in recent months. He was a true and treasured best friend of Dennis and we will all miss him.
My heartfelt condolences to both of you!
Mary Halpin