A funeral will be held Monday, Feb. 26, 2024 for 72-year-old Gary Mark Kerperien of Baldwin, Illinois, who passed away at 7:08 am, Thursday, February 22, 2024 at his residence.
He was born March 1, 1951 in St. Louis to George and Mary Frances (nee Stratman) Kerperien. They preceded him in death.
Gary married Kathleen Cooley on May 31, 1975 in Cahokia, Illinois; she survives in Baldwin.
He is also survived by three children: Erin (Sam) Stafford of Baldwin, Matthew Kerperien of Baldwin, and James Cooley of Prairie du Rocher, Ill.; five siblings: Deanne (Jim) Hughey of Troy, Ill., Anita Fulbright of Afton, Mo., Yvonne Eckert of Fenton, Mo., Mark (Anita) Kerperien of Belleville, Ill. and Sandra (Stephen) Stock of Camdenton, Mo.; 11 grandchildren: Logan Kerperien (Brittany Kendle), Gavin Stafford and Ian Stafford, TayLi Kerperien, Anthony, Brenden, Chloe and Dillon Cooley, and William (Alline), and Ashley and Austin Stafford; five great grandchildren: Skylar, Miles, Paisley, Zane and Ryleigh and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was also preceded in death by a son: Gary Anthony “Tony” Kerperien; a brother: Michael Kerperien and an infant sister: Karen Kerperien.
He had worked as a machinist for Cerro Flow for 53 years before retiring.
Gary was a member of St. Agatha Catholic Church in New Athens, Illinois.
He enjoyed fishing with his family, traveling and was an avid sports fan.
He also enjoyed all things history.
Gary was a wonderful father and loving husband.
He was the sweetest, kindest, most patient man who gave his love to everyone.
Visitation will be 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024 at the Pechacek Funeral Home in Red Bud, Illinois
and Monday – 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the St. Agatha Catholic Church, New Athens, Illinois.
A funeral mass for 72-year-old Gary Mark Kerperien of Baldwin will be held at 10:30 am, Monday, February 26, 2024 at St. Agatha Catholic Church, New Athens, Ill. Officiating: Father Von Deeke.
Interment will be in St. Agatha’s Catholic Cemetery, New Athens, Ill.