Harry Schlechte

Harry F. Schlechte, age 87, of Glen Carbon, Illinois, passed away at his home on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Born on March 21, 1939, in Livingston, Illinois, Harry was the son of the late Harry and Dora (Bononi) Schlechte.

A proud United States Army veteran, Harry served his country with honor. On March 22, 1974, he married the love of his life, Donna Hughes, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together, they shared fifty-two wonderful years of marriage.

Harry was a faithful member of St. James Lutheran Church in Glen Carbon, where he found great joy in worshiping and serving the Lord. He was also a devoted member of Gideons International, and distributing Bibles was one of his greatest passions. Harry retired from Tara Corporation in Granite City, IL., as plant manager after many years of dedicated service. He embraced life with a warm heart and an easy laugh. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Above all, he treasured his family. His kindness, faith, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Harry was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Aubuchon; and his siblings, Floyd Schlechte, Carol Fritzsche., and Marilan Weber.

Harry is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Schlechte of Glen Carbon, Illinois; his loving children, Carol Harless of New Florence, Missouri, Jed (Brenda) Schlechte of Alhambra, Illinois, Jason (Jessica) Schlechte of Marine, Illinois, and Matthew (Vanessa) Schlechte of Oahu, Hawaii; his dear siblings, Arvel (Janice) Schlechte, Richard (Sandra) Schlechte, Darla (Roger) Ashley, and Lynda (Christopher) Jones; nine grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Glen Carbon, Illinois, and from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at St. James Lutheran Church in Glen Carbon.

In celebration of Harry's life, the funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday at St. James Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Aaron Mueller officiating. Harry will be laid to rest at Oaklawn Cemetery in Glen Carbon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. James Lutheran Church or Gideons International. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home or church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home