Stanley J. Holtgrave

Stanley J. Holtgrave, age 80, of St. Rose, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese. Born on May 18, 1944, in Breese, Stanley was the beloved son of the late Edwin “Hoppie” and Helen (nee Ribbing) Holtgrave.

Stanley was a devoted husband to Kathy Holtgrave (nee Glaub), whom he married on June 11, 1966, at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Breese. Together, they created a life filled with love, family, and a deep connection to their community in St. Rose. Stanley is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Kathy, and their children: Brian (Kellye) Holtgrave of St. Rose, Denise (Chad) Sellers of Breese, and Dana (Jason) Obermeier of Okawville.

Stanley's pride and joy were his grandchildren: Katie Holtgrave, Abby (Taylor) Frank, Taylor (special friend, Nick Becker) Holtgrave, Zach Holtgrave, Cole (fiancée, Jenna Ratermann) Sellers, Blake (special friend, Alyssa Gall) Sellers, Ryan (Jess) Holtgrave, Raelyn Obermeier, Ryker Obermeier, and Rex Obermeier; as well as his great-grandchildren, Hadley and Harlow Holtgrave, with the anticipated arrival of another great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his brother, Mike Holtgrave of Maryville, and his extended family, including brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Bob (Agnes) Glaub, Dora Kruep, and Joanie (Blaine) Essenpreis, all of Breese, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Stanley was preceded in death by his beloved son, Brad Holtgrave; his sister, Jeanette “Jenny” (Maurice) Dierkes; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Vincent and Regina (nee Goewert) Glaub; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Clarice Holtgrave and Paul Kruep.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Stanley lived a life of dedication to his family and community. He was a lifelong grain and dairy farmer and also worked as a truck driver for Arrow Group Industries in Breese. His deep faith led him to be an active member of St. Rose Catholic Church and Men’s Sodality. He was involved with the Breese Knights of Columbus Council 2869, Clinton County Farm Bureau, Prairie Farms Association, and Mid-American Dairy Producers. Many in the community fondly remember Stanley for his role as Santa Claus, spreading joy at the mall, Northside Park in Breese, and at various local organizations.

Stanley found his greatest happiness surrounded by family, whether taking rides on his Gator or playing cards. His love for his family and his cherished grandchildren was the cornerstone of his life.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, October 11, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church in St. Rose. Interment will follow at St. Rose Cemetery.  There will be a Celebration of Stan’s Life following the service from 2:00-7:00 p.m. at The Venue 290 N. Clinton St. Breese, IL.

Visitation will be Friday, October 11, 2024, from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church in St. Rose.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to HSHS Home Health and Hospice or St. Rose Fire Department and will be received at the visitation or by mail, Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5^th St. Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family.