Wilbur Ferdinand Knoerr, 93, St. James and formerly of Linn, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at the Missouri Veterans Home in St. James.
He was born Nov. 6, 1932, the youngest of eight children to the late Frank and Cora (Coulter) Knoerr in Osage County.
He was sworn into the U. S. Air Force as a Private 1st Class Jan. 17, 1951.
Wilbur was united in marriage to Rita Schaefer Aug. 18, 1954, at St Peter’s Catholic Church in Jefferson City. They lived on their family farm on the Gasconade River where Wilbur farmed.
He was a member of St George Catholic Church in Linn, the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Missouri Farmers Union.
Wilbur was a descendant of John Coulter, the lead scout for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He was also an avid sports fan and followed the Linn Wildcats and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Wilbur had a “one of a kind” personality. He was a jokester and loved making people laugh. He loved his wife Rita, his cats and Jesus Christ.
Wilbur was preceded in death by wife, Rita; and parents, Frank and Cora.
He is survived by nieces, Jeannie Dulle, Cindi Thompson and Stepanie Lehman; and nephew, Eric Thompson.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Nov. 8, at St George Catholic Church in Linn with Fr. Colin Franklin officiating.
Interment was in the Knoerr Family Cemetery on the Big Cedar Farm near Linn.
Memorial contributions suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Morton Chapel in Linn.
