August Berchelmann

August Joseph Berchelmann "Joe" Born November 14, 1946, passed away October 6, 2018. Joe was born in Oskaloosa, IA. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mary Louise Staak and Dr. August George Berchelmann; brother Billy; and sister Mary Ann. He is survived by his wife, Jan; sisters Katie (Merle), Johanna (Terry), and Christine; brothers Steven (Lauren) and Jimmy (Clare); sons Will (Jeff) and Greg (Kathleen); daughter Susan (Mark); eight grandkids; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Joe was a kind and loving father to his kids, and a doting grandfather who adored his eight grandkids. He was a good provider, a loyal husband, and a man who always put the family needs above his own. He heavily invested himself into the lives of his children, making sacrifices of time, talent, and treasure that helped his children reach their dreams and potential. He spent his professional career in the insurance industry, but his real job - his true love - was coaching. That passion touched the lives of countless young men and women athletes for 40 years, from t-ball to high school baseball to collegiate softball and baseball. His avid sense of adventure and thirst for curiosity about the unknown were surpassed only by the richness of his deep, unwavering Catholic faith. Even at the very end, Joe had an uncanny knack for timing, embracing life just long enough to celebrate 45 years of marriage with his wife, Jan, down to the exact date and time. Joe's connection with Jan was profoundly strong, most exemplified by his meeting her in Texas and proposing a mere month later. Although Joe only spent the first 21 years of his life in Texas before moving to Missouri, it might as well have been forever. He was a Texan until the day he died, treasuring every memory and experience shared with the bounty of Texan family and friends he leaves behind. His subtle twang, fierce independence, and warm hospitality exuded the best of the Lone Star State. Perhaps that's why Joe never met a stranger. He thrived on meeting and talking to everyone, reflecting the diversity of the rich friendships he shared with people from all walks of life. His giving and loving persona stitched together the lasting connections fostered between the many people whose paths he crossed. Joe never missed an opportunity for adventure. Whether it was riding his Harley, sailing the Caribbean, skiing a mountain, or traveling the world, Joe was there. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Friends of St. Francis de Sales Oratory, Inc., 2653 Ohio Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118. Requiem Mass on Friday 11:00 AM at St. Francis de Sales. Interment St. Lucas Cemetery, 11735 Denny Rd., St. Louis, MO 63126. JOHN L. ZIEGENHEIN & SONS FUNERAL HOMES Friday, October 12, 2018
11:00 am -
St. Francis De Sales Oratory
2653 Ohio Avenue, St. Louis City, Missouri 63118