Kenneth B. Obrecht, a devoted family man, passionate sports fan, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the age of 78.
Ken was born on July 2, 1945, in E. Chicago, Indiana, to Kenneth E. and Esther (nee Burkland) Obrecht. Raised on his family’s farm in Cisne, Illinois, Ken’s love for sports began early. He balanced playing baseball, softball, basketball, and track alongside his studies and farm chores. This passion continued throughout his life, as he enthusiastically cheered on his beloved Cardinals and spent countless hours coaching his daughters’ softball teams—earning him a place in the Mary Mother of the Church Sports Hall of Fame in 1994.
Ken earned degrees in agricultural business and economics from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and spent most of his professional career at Farm Credit Bank and Edward Jones. He shared his expertise with the community, volunteering to consult on agriculture projects in Russia and teach financial literacy to teens. He held various leadership roles, including finance chairman, at Concord Trinity United Methodist Church.
Beyond his professional and civic achievements, Ken embraced life’s simple joys. He cherished traveling the world, the thrill of a bridge game, a trip to Ted Drewes for frozen custard, and the laughter shared over a well-told joke. However, his greatest joy was undoubtedly his family, who brought immeasurable love and happiness to his life. Ken was the loving husband, of nearly 54 years, to Karen (nee Rekart) Obrecht. Dear father of Michelle (Lance) Chapman, Jill (Eric) Barton, Christy (Rob) Linden. Grandfather of Samantha Chapman, Sabrina Chapman, Ian Linden, and Kate Linden. Brother of Karen (Marvin) Cole. Dear uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend of many.
SERVICES: A VISITATION will be held on Wednesday, July 3 from 9:30 am until time of MEMORIAL SERVICE at 10:30 am at the Concord Trinity United Methodist Church 5275 S Lindbergh Blvd. Private burial at Resurrection Cemetery at a future time. A service of Kutis South County Chapel.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his honor to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, Doctors Without Borders or Operation Food Search
Kenneth B. Obrecht was born on July 2, 1945 in E. Chicago, IN to Kenneth E. and Esther (nee Burkland) Obrecht and entered into rest on Friday, June 28, 2024 at the age of 78.
The loving husband, of nearly 54 years, to Karen (nee Rekart) Obrecht. Dear father of Michelle (Lance) Chapman, Jill (Eric) Barton, Christy (Rob) Linden. Grandfather of Samantha Chapman, Sabrina Chapman, Ian Linden, and Kate Linden. Brother of Karen (Marvin) Cole. Dear uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend of many.
SERVICES: A VISITATION will be held on Wednesday, July 3 from 9:30 am until time of MEMORIAL SERVICE at 10:30 am at the Concord Trinity United Methodist Church 5275 S Lindbergh Blvd. Private burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. A service of Kutis South County Chapel.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his honor to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, Doctors Without Borders or Operation Food Search
A gracious man with whom we wanted more time. I know Ellery loved his lifelong friend like a brother. How could you not? We will miss him and think of him often especially during Cardinals games. Marsha Duke (Ellery is in Denver so I imagine he’ll
want to express his own thoughts too
Ken was involved with the St. Louis AgriBusiness Club in the 1990’s and 2000’s, serving as an officer for 3 years prior to his Presidency in 2002-2003. Great guy he was to be involved in the promotion of the agricultural industry. He helped support our first agribusiness economic study in 2000. Expressing our thoughts and prayers from all of our now 450 club members.
I had the pleasure of meeting and interacting with Ken during my employment at the Farm Credit Banks of St. Louis. I was saddened to see his obituary in today’s newspaper. I offer my condolences to the Obrecht family.
Michelle
So sorry to hear about your dad. According to the obituary, he was quite a blessing to many. I’m sure he will be missed by family & friends. Praying for you, Lance & the girls & all your dear family. God bless all of you with peace & fond memories to carry on & share.
I have already left my heartfelt memory of Ken but would like to add my recognition of his family’s loss also. I know what a genuinely caring husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and brother he was. We honor your loss and grieve with you. Marsha and Ellery Duke
Ken and I played bridge on line together for the last several years. He was so kind And a great bridge partner. It’s unlikely that I will meet another partner as good as him. Condolences to all of his family