Kenneth Wilde
November 6, 1923 - January 08, 2026
Beloved husband of the late Eve R. (Landsberger) Wilde; dear father of Thomas Wilde (Alyssa), Larry Wilde, and Carol York (Kevin); dear grandfather of Ky, Laura, Deborah, David, Nathan, Alaina, Amanda, and Samantha; dear great-grandfather of two.
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Barbara Blumfiled
January 29, 1927 - January 17, 2026
Born January 29, 1927, to Morton and Edna Weiss in Chicago, she received her undergraduate degree from Mount Holyoke College and her master’s degree in education from the University of Chicago. She married Irvin Blumfield, M.D., on April 5, 1952, and they moved to Alton, Ill., then to Florida following his retirement. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Paul, and son Robert.
Barbara is survived by her children, son Michael Blumfield and daughter Laura Moats (Greg); grandchildren Jennifer Moats Faloon (Patrick), Ryan Moats (Jenny), Anna Blumfield Holdhusen (Max), and Isaac Blumfield; and seven great-grandchildren, Max, Mia, and Molly (Faloon), Sawyer, Kinsley, and Hallie (Moats), and Harvey (Holdhusen).
Barbara enjoyed attending the opera, ballet, and the symphony, as well as playing bridge and Mah Jongg. She was an avid reader and advocate for education. Accordingly, memorials in her name may be made to your local public library.
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Douglas Kirby
October 31, 1935 - January 19, 2026
Douglas G. Kirby passed away peacefully Monday, January 19th surrounded by his family. Douglas was the beloved husband of Doris C. Kirby, devoted father of Stephen A. Kirby, Kathleen L. Kirby, and Daniel S. (Cynthia) Kirby, and cherished grandfather of Christina, Ashley, Brent, Sierra, Nicole, Rachel, and Armando “AJ.” He was the adored great-grandfather of Zoè, Samuel, Dominic, Layla, and Raegan.
Douglas was the loving brother of Jack (Peggy) Kirby and half-brother of Susie (Paul) Panus, Kiley (Roberta) Kirby, and Patricia (Damien) Mulvany; and was preceded in death by Walter (Janice) Kolano, Christine Kolano, Charlotte (the late Ray) Thomas, Denise (the late Edward) Rodgers, and Jennifer (Paul) Dreste. Beloved son of the late William “Bud” Kirby and Elba Kolano. He will also be remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Douglas worked as an electrician for more than 50 years, always dedicated to his craft and eager to create and improve the world around him. His creativity and hands-on ingenuity led him to countless home projects—tearing down and rebuilding space to match his meticulous vision—and to handcrafting inventions from spare parts, including an electric mini-bike and a go-kart for his kids. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Douglas especially loved his BMW and often rode cross-country to California and Florida for racing events, once making the drive home from California in just over a day. He shared his love of riding with his sons, creating memories that will last forever.
At age 42, Douglas took up running and went on to complete seven marathons, consistently excelling in his age group. He also enjoyed bowling and once bowled a near-perfect game of 279, a proud accomplishment shared with Doris, his bowling partner and the love of his life. A faithful Catholic, Douglas attended church regularly until his health no longer allowed. He and Doris shared an extraordinary 71-year marriage that began when they met as high school freshmen — truly a story of “love at first sight, and love forever.”
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Douglas will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and devotion to his family.
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Lynne Schneider
February 28, 1934 - February 3, 2026
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Barbara Gross
February 28, 1934 - February 3, 2026
Beloved wife of the late James I. Gross, Sr. Dear mother of Martin D. “Marty” (Michael Mefford) Gross, James I. (J. Todd Marshall) Gross, Jr. and Julie E. Gross. Beloved sister of the late Suzanne (late Solomon) Rosenthal. Dear sister-in-law of the late Jean (late Howard) Beck and the late Babette (late Donald) Simon. Loving aunt of Jack Rosenthal, Marla Rosenthal, Sara (Roy) Luongo, the late Larry Beck, Margie Beck, Charlie (Libby) Beck, Andy (Linda) Nathan, Joanne (Ken) Greene, Paula Nathan and the late Doug Simon. Barbara was a dear great-aunt, cousin and friend; and she had a special love for her grand-dogs Chloe and Dolly, and their daily visits.
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Gerald Auslander
April 10, 1929 - January 28, 2026
Gerald was born in St. Louis on April 10, 1929. Gerald was the son of Sol and Anna Auslander. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Doris, his daughter Deborah Eastman, granddaughter Allison Eastman and his brother Melroy Auslander. Jerry is survived by his son Gary Auslander and wife Stacey, grandsons Andrew Eastman and wife Emily, Dr. Kay Thomas, and great granddaughter Charlotte Eastman and great grandson David Eastman. He also leaves behind 5 nieces and one nephew.
Jerry had multiple careers including owning and operating wholesale liquor distributorships, owning a chiropractic table manufacturing company and as a Job Coach for MERS Goodwill. Jerry was also in the Air Force during the Korean War.
Jerry retired and relocated to Florida to be close to his son Gary.
Jerry enjoyed telling jokes, sharing stories, painting and being around his friends and family. Jerry had a great sense of humor, was an engaging conversationalist and liked to keep up on current events. He volunteered selflessly with Boy Scout Troop 39 for years; his pinewood derby cars were woodworking marvels. Jerry also enjoyed a nice prime rib dinner and chocolate.
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Michael Henry Freund
October 30, 1939 - February 3, 2026
Mike Freund was a gentle force of nature, a kind gentleman. He lived a life of career accomplishment, civic pride, community involvement, and devotion to family and friends. A 5th generation St. Louisan, Mike felt deeply committed to the people, places, and organizations around him. He served prominently on boards of directors ranging from Edison Brothers Stores, Inc. and Temple Emanuel to United Way, Junior Achievement, Central Institute for the Deaf, Washington University Medical Center, Westwood Country Club -- and many more.
Mike had several successful chapters in his career. He started at Freund Baking Company, as a 5th generation owner, from 1963 to 1969, and loved to tell stories about the company’s storied past -- including its important role in feeding General Grant’s Union troops. Mike next joined Edison Brothers Stores, Inc. in 1969, rising to Executive Vice President before his retirement in 1998. From there, he became Director of University Special Development Projects for Alumni & Development Programs at Washington University in St. Louis until mid-2018.
What truly defined Mike’s life was his warmth and genuine generosity of spirit. He avidly maintained long relationships with dear friends from all chapters of his life. He knew someone in every room he entered. Mike was friendly, gregarious and kind, and was blessed with a special intelligence for connecting people for their mutual benefit. His social calendar was always full -- and he would have it no other way. He brought people together into lasting relationships and cheered on their every endeavor. Although separated geographically, Mike remained closely connected with his lovely brothers and sisters-in-law, Henry (“Hap”) & Claudia and John & Penny, as well as with his former wife, Barbie G. Freund, and his brilliant nephews, Christopher (Phung) Freund, Zach (Rachel) Freund, and Willy (Amy) Chotzen and their beautiful families.
Mike should be most remembered for the incredible love and devotion he had for his family. Always ready with a family story and history from across the years, he was the constant, caring, and steady presence that made his children and grandchildren feel seen, safe, and deeply beloved. His children, Nan (Steve) Fox, Bill Freund, and Candace (Mark) Anderson, and his grandchildren, Sophia, Dylan, Wyatt, Ella, and Oliver Fox and Lilly and Lauren Anderson, will forever remember the warmth, love, humor and kind disposition of the wonderful father and grandfather who brightened their lives in every way.
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Dr. Gene W. Spector MD
June 21, 1932 - June 16, 2025
Beloved husband of Barbara Spector; dear father and father-in-law of Betsy (Jeff) Schechter and Wendy Eisenberg; dear stepfather of Jeanne Messing (Fred) Walsh; dear grandfather of Jackie and Jacob Schechter, Emily, Jared, Oliver and Elliot Eisenberg, Joey and Solly Walsh; beloved son of the late Hyman I. Spector, M.D., and the late Charlotte Koplovitz Spector Harris; dear brother and brother-in-law of the late Judith (the late Adam) Aronson, Richard (Karen) Spector, and Beverly (Andrew) Brilliant; dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many.
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Elaine Kahn
September 29, 1938 - February 11, 2026
Beloved wife of David Kahn. Dear daughter of the late Harold and Josephine Lieberthal. Our loving relative and friend.
Elaine graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a bachelor’s degree and began her career as an occupational therapist, dedicating herself to helping others live fuller, more independent lives.
In later years, she devoted her time to causes close to her heart. Through the Lions Club, she volunteered countless hours serving those in need. In recognition of her extraordinary commitment, she received the organization’s highest humanitarian honor, the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award – an achievement she accepted with deep gratitude.
Elaine also gave generously of her time to the North County Dog Club, helping train and prepare service dogs for individuals in need. A lifelong dog lover and devoted pet owner, she had a special fondness for Bearded Collies. She eagerly read canine publications, especially Whole Dog Journal, and cared for her four-legged companions as lovingly as family.
Elaine shared a beautiful life with David, the love of her life. Together they embraced many shared interests, including the Computer Club, where Elaine particularly thrived. Curious and forward-thinking, she took pride in mastering new technology and staying connected with friends and family in every way possible – even at 87.
At home, Elaine found joy in life’s simple pleasures: time with David and her beloved dogs, and quiet hours spent crocheting or knitting beautiful handmade pieces. She also held a special fascination with trains, especially the Union Pacific “Big Boy.”
Kind-hearted, generous, and deeply loving, Elaine touched many lives. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
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Shirley Anne Grosberg
January 20, 1933 - February 14, 2026
Beloved wife of the late Ralph Hugo Grosberg. Dear mother of Bradley (Philip Kean) Grosberg, Karen (Sandon) Wool and the late Patricia Grosberg. Loving grandmother of Shane Lee (Jax) Wool, Matthew (Lolly) Wool, Samantha (Jordan Taylor) Wool and Travis (Katie) Wool. Cherished great grandmother of Jonah, Mae, Theodore, Eleanore, the late Samuel, Emory, Grayson, and Noa. Beloved sister of the late Lee Sanders (late Jack) Weinberg. Dear aunt, cousin and friend.
Shirley’s life was about her husband and family which came before anything else. Shirley also, with her friend Lee Salky, ran a successful retail stationery, card and gift business with locations in Frontenac and the Central West End for many years. She and Ralph enjoyed travelling, which included many trips with their cousins Don and Peggy Ross under Captain Don’s expert seamanship. She and Ralph had 75+ years together and her last years were spent waiting to be reunited with her true love once again. We will all miss “feisty Shirley” and do hope that she is with her love for Valentines Day.
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Ellen Farber
October 19, 1947 - February 20, 2026
She is survived by her husband, Norman, her two sons, Todd (Jeanne) and Tim, grandchild Delilah, two sisters Carol and Marge (late Jerry), numerous beloved nieces and nephews and predeceased by her parents Stanley and Carolyn Jacobs.
Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Ellen worked in her family’s retail store before attending Stephens College, where she met her husband, Norm. They shared a happy marriage of more than 54 years. She later graduated from the University of Missouri with degrees in education and special education, beginning a lifelong career as an educator, teacher, and tutor to numerous students across generations.
Ellen deeply loved her family and her many dear friends. Her sons, Todd and Tim, were the center of her life and her proudest accomplishments. She had a radiant smile and an infectious personality that could light up any room — or even a department store. Over the years, she touched countless lives through her tutoring, volunteering, and warm, bubbly spirit. Helping others brought her the greatest joy. Her phone was always ringing with calls from friends, students, and parents alike. No doubt, they’ll need a second phone line in heaven.
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Linda Langsdorf
Linda, Lindy Sue, Mom, Noa, Nono was born on April 5th, 1947. Cherished daughter of the late Marcus Becker and Hilda (Routburg) Becker. Beloved wife of the late Thomas Kline Langsdorf. Devoted mother to Caroline (Andrew) Weinstein, Julia (Daniel) Jacobson and Margot Langsdorf. Proud Noa/Nono of Charles and Theodore Weinstein and Samuel and Lucy Jacobson. Older sister to the late Jeffrey Becker and Foster Becker. Sister-in-law of Phyllis (Zable) Langsdorf and Kenneth Langsdorf. Trusted and loyal friend to many.
Linda lived the majority of her life in her beloved hometown, St. Louis. A graduate of “Little Ladue” (Reed School) and Ladue High School, Linda continued her education at Emory University, graduating with a degree in Education. A true lifelong learner, Linda went on to earn two master’s degrees, one in Education (University of Pennsylvania) and one in Health Care Administration (Washington University), the latter at the ripe age of fifty-two where she was the Salutatorian of her class. Linda used her gifts of intelligence to help others through her work as a special education teacher and administrator in the St. Louis Special School District. She later helped to start the first of its kind Women’s Well program at St. Mary’s Hospital, with a focus on increasing access to women’s healthcare.
Even when not in the work force, Linda always pursued ways to further her learning and the learning of others, serving as a docent at the St. Louis Art Museum for over 20 years and sitting on boards such as the Wellness Community and the Psychoanalytic Institute. Linda was extremely intelligent, with a sharp wit and quick sense of humor; she loved reading, playing bridge and traveling with her family and grandkids to beautiful locales with great food. May Linda’s memory forever be a blessing to those who loved her as much as she loved them.
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Judith Bremer Taxman
October 1, 1944 - February 14, 2026
Judy was predeceased by her husband Paul Taxman, her children Paige and Jef Bremer, sister Barbara Langsdorf, brother Robert Langsdorf, cousin Carol (like a sister), and her parents Arthur and Edna Langsdorf.
Judy touched many people in her life and will lovingly be remembered by them as well as her cousins Dennis (Clydea) Hampel, cousin Mike (Linda) Kalinowski, daughter-in-law Michelle Chapman, step-sister Keri Kolb, niece Rachel Kolb, brother in-law Philip (Maria) Taxman, nieces and nephews, adopted families Curt Baumgartner, Ted Constantin, the Nguyens (Jennifer, Lily, Kevin, Michael, Brittany), Lisa Ochiltree, and Sue Myers. Judy had wonderful neighbors and loving caregivers.
Judy was a busy lady raising two children and having successful careers in several area over the years. She helped develop Kennelwood Pet Resort, owned two grooming salons, owned a stencil shop, traveled worldwide doing motivational speaking engagements through Toastmasters International, and was instrumental in helping her husband Paul open and run his business.
Like her mom, Judy was a very kind soul who lived through many tragic losses. Through their faith, they were both able to make everyone around them feel loved and special!
Judy will be missed by so many, but always in our hearts!
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