Beloved husband of Jane Koberlein (nee Taschler). Dear father of Michael (Kathryn) and Kevin (Shannon) Koberlein. Dear grandfather of Benjamin, Elliot, Jonathan and Henry. Dear son of the late Leo and Elsie Koberlein. Dear brother of the late Gerald, Lela May, Robert and Marylin Koberlein and LuAnn (Terry) Phillips. Dear brother-in-law of Theresa (Irvin) Miyamoto. Dear uncle of Jeffrey (Juliana) Phillips, Jennifer (Ryan) Lau and Steve Miyamoto. Family friend Elaine Purdue. Our dear great uncle, cousin and friend to many.
Don was born and raised in Columbia, Illinois – the youngest of 6 children. Preparatory and collegiate studies took him to northern Illinois and New Orleans before returning home. He met Jane, his future wife of 50 years, at the former St. Phillip School in East St. Louis. They married in 1976 and raised two sons, Michael and Kevin, in south St. Louis County.
Don developed and nourished his deep faith through masters degrees in both Divinity and Theology. He led, served, and counseled members of his larger community, sparking a lifelong pursuit of faith through action. Don would go on to attain masters degrees in Data Management and Business Administration. His professional career was further defined by leadership roles at the engineering firm Russell & Axon and general contractor K&S Associates.
He was inspired by and accomplished in wood working, home remodeling, music, guitar playing, mechanics, architecture, and baking – he was a lifelong learner. His intellect was served by a humble wisdom and kindness. His heart was served by freely helping others.
Don enjoyed his retirement, especially his travels with Jane. Their many trips took them across the United States and Hawaii, to Canada, South Africa, and Europe – he found his peace hiking the Swiss Alps. More than the sites he visited, he loved connecting with people whose life experience differed from his. He celebrated and supported the goodness and worth of everyone he met. Don adored his entire family and was an avid fan at his grandsons’ hockey games, music and school events, and milestone moments.
SERVICES: Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123) on Sunday, November 1, 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mark Catholic Church on Monday, November 2, 10:00 a.m. Mass. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Contributions to Sister Thea Bowman Catholic Schools of East St. Louis, International Institute of St. Louis or the Alzheimer’s Association would be appreciated.