Valrea Weber passed away in her home June 2, 2023, at the age of 102.
She is survived by her grandchildren Steven Marsh (Verica), Shari (Keith) Meyers, and Christopher (Michelle) Winkelmann. She was the beloved great grandmother of Nicholas (Samantha) Marsh, Anthony (Elizabeth) Marsh, Ryan Meyers, Elissa Meyers, Gabriella Marsh, Sara Winkelmann and great-great- grandmother of Thomas Marsh.
Valrea was preceded in death by all three of her children: Glenda (Charles) nee Lusk, Marsh, Ronald (Pauline) Winkelmann and James (Paulette) Winkelmann. Three husbands preceded her in death: Earl Weber, Lee Winkelmann and Lorenza Lusk. She was a loving mother-in-law, stepmother, cousin, neighbor, friend and inspiration to many people.
Born Valrea Bowman February 12, 1921 in Portageville, Missouri, Val moved to St. Louis during World War II, following the death of her first husband in an automobile accident. Some of Val’s earliest memories are of picking cotton beside her grandmother Annie Shaver, who raised her when Val lost her mother as a toddler.
Val was a stay-at-home mom while raising her family. In 1968 she joined her husband Lee Winkelmann in his family business, Schultz Door. After completing some bookkeeping classes, she took pride in helping run the business as efficiently as her home. Even after retiring in 1983, she developed a home budget and maintained meticulous financial records in her ledgers. It was one of her passions – family knew it was not advisable to visit on a day the books wouldn’t balance.
In retirement Val and her third husband Earl Weber enjoyed travel, playing cards with friends and visits to local casinos. Even widowed and living alone, she maintained her books and a budget that always included a modest allotment for some casino outings.
Val was an avid reader, preferring nonfiction books, especially memoirs and biographies. She had a keen interest in politics and world events and many lively discussions took place around her patio table. Exercise played an important part in her life – the hospice nurse had a hard time recently convincing her it was no longer safe to use her treadmill. Family was her treasure. Once shown that her family could send pictures and messages on a smart phone, she embraced the technology. Even better – a playlist could summon her favorite Frank Sinatra songs. Ever frugal, Val immediately ditched her landline.
Val loved her home of more than 60 years in Crestwood and felt blessed to be able to remain there until her death. Videos and visits from her first great- great grandson were a highlight of her final days. She couldn’t take her eyes off little Thomas.
Val was an inspiration to many and truly did it, “My Way.”
SERVICES: Funeral will be held at Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Rd 63123) on Friday, June 9th at 9:00 am. Interment to follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation Thursday 4:00-8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation.
If you knew Val you had to love her unfiltered frankness and pure honesty. She was always so kind and welcoming to me and my family. I know she is now enjoying her children and other loved ones who were awaiting her arrival in Heaven. You will be missed here Val but I’m happy that you are now at peace. God’s Blessings 🙏
To My Dear Friend, Val–A lady with a HUGE heart and even larger personality.
I only have wonderful memories of all of all times together–you are now peaceful,
happy and HOME.
Always in my heart and thoughts.
Susan
Such a beautiful, unique soul! She loved others deeply and cared for her fellow man’s well being more so then her own. It was a joy and honor to know Val. Prayers of comfort for her family. Find peace in knowing she’s is in the presences of our Lord. Our absence from her is but temporary.
To my second mom, my best friend, my mentor, my rock and my inspiration:
It has been an absolute privilege to care for you for the last 1 1/2 years. I love the bond we shared and will treasure it always. We had the best conversations about life, family and current events. You taught me to be still and listen to God. Your wisdom was golden. I am comforted knowing we had all the conversations we needed to have before this day and that you will continue to be there to guide me. I am sad and miss you terribly, but what a reunion this is for you in heaven! THIS above all else gives me peace. Cheers! My love to you forever and ever. 💕🍸
We are so sorry for your loss. This is such a beautifully written obituary. Valrea was a feisty & classy lady! We hope all of the good memories will ease your sadness & bring you peace. Deepest sympathy to all of you.
Well dear Lady , it’s time to continue on your journey home to have a glorious reunion in Heaven, with your beloved, Glenda. You have fulfilled your purpose by being a much needed and comforting Grandma to Shari and Steve and your other grandchildren, after their sweet, beautiful mother and grandmother, Glenda, passed away , much too soon . Hanging around a bit longer after Charlie died , to continue to comfort your grandchildren was also, good planning .
Your job was well done, here on Earth, and now it’s time for you to have a much deserved, peaceful rest. God Bless you and keep you in his care, Dear Heart, until we all meet again.