Kenneth C. Kieffer

Beloved husband of Betty Jo Kieffer, dear father of John Gilliam and Beverly Gilliam Taki; dear grandfather of Adam Taki; dear brother of the late Albert (Ruth) Kieffer; son of the late Albert A. and Matilda Kieffer; dear uncle, cousin, Comrade of the American Legion, Brother Nobles, and Chanters of the Moolah Shriners. He was born on August 7, 1928 and began life in Olivette, Missouri.

He grew up in Creve Coeur where the bus was his source of transportation. He had to travel for miles to attend high school in Eureka, MO. The US Army took him out of high school just prior to his senior year and he was sent overseas to serve this great country from 1944 to 1946. He spoke of the bunk beds he slept on in the huge military ship that sent him to Germany at that time. After his proud service to our country, he had to finish high school in Maplewood. He valued education so much that he earned a BA and a Master’s degree from Washington University. His Aunt Hilda was the influence on him to become a teacher. He never lost his love for the United States of America and dedicated his life to its service and to veterans who also served this country.

Kenneth came to Ladue Horton Watkins High School in 1953 where he reveled in teaching history. He was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to the University of Poona, India and participated in travel studies throughout many countries in the world. In his 33 years of teaching experience, he taught in Troy, Missouri and Pattonville.

His biggest passion was the American Legion, where he was an active member for over 65 years. He dedicated so much of his time to the interests of the Legion on many levels. He served as Chaplain to his Post 397 and the 10th District. He also served over seven years as the Chaplain of the American Legion Department of Missouri. Ken so enjoyed participating in the Legion activities and led committees such as Boy’s State, Oratorical Contest, VA VS Commission for the Department and the Children and Youth National Commission. He and Betty Jo traveled extensively to the many National and Department conventions at various cities as they were full of adventure and supportive of the organization.

Ken was the most eligible bachelor, until Betty Jo met him at the American Legion Hall in Creve Coeur. Ken would go to the Legion on Friday nights and enjoy the company of the comrades. Once Betty Jo set eyes on him, she became a regular at the Legion Friday Fish Fry also until she caught his attention and eventually married him!

They were married on July 10, 1971. He enjoyed 40 years of bliss and married life to Betty Jo who remained a devoted spouse throughout every struggle in their life. In marrying her, he took on her two children, John and Beverly. The 40 plus years of marriage brought pure joy and happiness to his life. Their marriage is a true love story. He showed the world how to be a loving husband and father. He became a father at the age of 45 and a grandfather 15 years later. He was an awesome, caring and loving parent and grandparent. He was extremely dedicated to his new family. Betty Jo and Ken were able to take summer trips all over the world. Due to his love for history and his job as a social studies teacher, his summers were free to experience and enjoy the world.

Ken is an example of a nearly perfect man in that he was close to God and he truly loved his family and he lived a lifestyle that showed others his Christian faith. He was pure and really true in his faith to God. Ken sang in the choir at church and often read scripture at the church. He also shared and enjoyed his joy of singing and sang solos for many church services and was chosen to sing at weddings too. He played the piano, organ and was blessed with a harmonious voice. We know he will be used in God’s choir in heaven as God needs angels to sing and worship our Heavenly Father.

Ken was a traditional, loyal man. He bought and built the home on Ladue Heights Drive 45 years ago, which would later offer him the solitude and a place for his final days and where he would find his ultimate peace in this world. He leaves this home with great memories.

In the recent years, he expanded his interest to the Moolah Shrine. He joined the Chanters unit and served as its president. Kenneth was never just a joiner; he also a doer. He contributed his vocal talents to the Chanters group and so enjoyed the camaraderie of singing with this exceptional group of giving men.

Kenneth Kieffer was kind, caring, loving, fun, and full of spirit, a giver, a volunteer, a dedicated man to his passions. He will be known as a perfect husband and father. He knew and loved our Heavenly Father. We know that God has prepared a place for him in heaven. We will miss him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the American Legion Scholarship or Veteran’s Fund, Post 397 would be appreciated. Donations can be sent to the American Legion Post 397 Memorial Fund, 936 Rue De La Banque, Creve Coeur, MO 63141.