Celsus Henry Stegeman, 87, Folk, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital.
He was born Aug. 6, 1936, to the late August and Olivia (Wilde) Stegeman in Folk.
He served his country in the U. S. Army following his school years.
Celsus was united in marriage to Joan Sophia Grellner May 15, 1965, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rich Fountain.
He began his journey into the world of work at Tweedie Footwear, before embarking on a life-long career as a farmer. Celsus dedicated himself to being a dairy, beef and hog farmer, and found great joy in cutting hay and feeding his cattle. Remarkably, his commitment to the land endured until he reached the impressive age of 84 years old.
Throughout his farming years, Celsus demonstrated remarkable entrepreneurship by co-owning and operating both L&S Farms and L&S Welding.
In more recent times, he devoted himself to the tender care of his beloved wife, giving her love and support when she needed it most.
Beyond his work and family life, Celsus found solace in leisurely pursuits such as fishing on the tranquil back waters of the Osage River which brought him a sense of peace, and hunting provided an outlet for his adventurous spirit. Additionally, he shared Missouri’s collective pride by playing baseball and softball himself, as well as being an ardent supporter of all local sports teams including the St. Louis Cardinals.
Celsus was preceded in death by parents, August and Olivia; siblings, Francis Stegeman, Gene Stegeman, Dorothy Rustemeyer, Norma Sandbothe, Lydia Luecke and Ralph Stegeman; and brother-in-law, Francis Schaefer.
He is survived by wife, Joan of Folk; sons, Randy Stegeman and wife Cindy and Danny Stegeman and wife Kris, all of Folk; grandchildren, Ashley Zimmer, Eric Stegeman and Gina and Dani Stegeman; and siblings, Marietta Schaefer of Loose Creek and Margie Haslag and husband Conrad of Loose Creek.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 8, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Folk with the Rev. James Finder officiating.
Interment with military honors will be in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Cemetery or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes in Westphalia.
