Cletus Knobeloch
Granite City | Save
Cletus August Knobeloch, 99, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Jerseyville Manor.
Born on the family farm in Clinton County, Illinois, on January 20, 1926, Cletus was the beloved son of the late Otto and Irene (Huelskoetter) Knobeloch. His life was defined by faith, service, devotion to family, and an enduring love for the simple joys that made him happiest.
A proud veteran, Cletus served his country with honor in both World War II and the Korean War, as a member of the United States Navy. His patriotism and dedication to duty remained lifelong hallmarks of his character.
On September 27, 1952, he married the love of his life, Frances Newell, at St. Peter’s Evangelical United Church of Christ in Granite City. Together they built more than a home—they created a legacy of love, faith, and family. Their marriage of over 61 years was a shining example of devotion until Frances’s passing on February 20, 2014.
Cletus retired in 1991, following 45 years of holding various positions in the soft-drink bottling industry in the greater St. Louis area. He closed his career with 7-Up Bottling Company in St. Louis, Missouri.
Outside of work, he poured his heart into his passions. They were first and foremost his family, cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals, reading a good book, and enjoying classic John Wayne movies (even when he could no longer hear them!). He loved being outdoors enjoying nature, and casting a line on fishing days was a lifelong passion.
To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he was a steadfast source of love, patience, and wisdom, always leading them by example. To friends and neighbors, he was a kind soul who never met a stranger. His warmth and loyalty touched every life he encountered, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Cletus is survived by his loving children, Rev. Sue (Randy) Biggerstaff of Wright City, MO; Bruce (Elaine Frey) Knobeloch of Salinas, CA; and Maryellen (Ed) Brake of Godfrey, IL. He is also cherished by his dear sisters, Millie Glenn and Norma Macios; his treasured grandchildren, Nick (Amanda) Biggerstaff, Amy (Rob) Swanson, Ian (Dr. Emily Slat) Brake, Jordan (Dominick Casucci) Brake, Ellen (Matt) Brinkman, and Emily (Rick Craig) Knobeloch; and his adored great-grandchildren, Jay Swanson, Nolan Swanson, Alana Biggerstaff, Preston August Biggerstaff, and Madelynn Knobeloch. His legacy also lives on through many amazing nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends, especially Eileen Rea whose friendship he cherished.
A celebration of Cletus’s remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Karla Frost. Cletus will be laid to rest with full military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Thursday, August 21, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri—a fitting tribute to a life of service and purpose.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Gateway Area Chapter, and VFW Post 1300 of Granite City, Illinois, honoring the causes closest to his heart.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
