Ronald R. Karcher, Sr.

Ronald R. Karcher, Sr., 76, of Millstadt, IL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 26, 2023, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL. He was born on April 15, 1947, in Mt. Vernon, IL to Robert and Olivia (Kiefer) Karcher, and they precede him in death. He was also preceded in death by his dear son Ronald “Ronnie” R. Karcher, Jr., daughter-in-law Lotina Karcher, sister-in-law Deanna Karcher, brother-in-law Jim Cade and father-in-law Erwin Herrmann.

Ron grew up in Mt. Vernon, IL and left home after finishing the eighth grade to attend St. Henry’s Seminary in Belleville, IL where he graduated from high school. He then attended Lewis College in Joliet, IL, graduating with his bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy. He then attended Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, IL, graduating with his master’s degree in education.

Ron began his career as a primary school principal at St. James Catholic School in Millstadt, IL. He then went on to serve as principal for St. John’s Catholic School in Red Bud, IL, St. Henry’s Catholic School in Belleville, IL and Holy Childhood Catholic School in Mascoutah, IL, where he ultimately retired. Ron then came out of retirement and served as principal again for St. James Catholic School in Millstadt for one year before retiring permanently.

Ron was ordained Deacon in the Catholic Church on April 15, 1997, at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Belleville, IL. He would then serve the congregation of St. James Catholic Church in Millstadt, IL for the next 26 years. Ron was also committed to serving the incarcerated through prison ministry and completed 25 years of dedicated service. Ron served Althoff Catholic High School for 20 years, calling Bingo every Monday night. He was a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus and was a member of the Millstadt Commercial Club.

In his spare time, Ron enjoyed woodworking, reading, following the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers until they traded his favorite player, Aaron Rodgers. He then became a Kansas City Chiefs fan. Most of all, Ron cherished the time he spent with his family and friends. He will be remembered as a dedicated son, husband, father, brother, grandfather and dear friend and faithful servant to many. Ron touched all those that he met, and his kindness will live in our memories of him.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife Judy Karcher, nee Herrmann, his mother-in-law Ruth Herrmann, his son Andrew (Ella) Karcher, his siblings: Joan Cade, Eileen (Phillip) Greer, Sharon (Dick) Martin, Gail (Loretta) Karcher, Roland (Lawanna) Karcher, Donna (Rod) Germann, his sisters-in-law Jean (Kevin) Colbert, Joanie (Steve) Conrad, his brother-in-law Paul (Betsy) Herrmann, his grandchildren Melea Karcher, Maya Karcher and Marston Karcher in addition to many beloved friends.

Ron’s wishes were to serve others after his death and donated his body to Washington University School of Medicine.

Visitation will be held on Monday September 18, 2023, from 2:00pm-8:00pm at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 200 W. Harrison St., Belleville, IL. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday September 19, 2023, at the Cathedral of St. Peter at 11:00am, concelebrated by Msgr. Marvin Volk and Fr. Carl Scherrer.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Mary the Immaculate Conception Church in Mt. Vernon, IL, St. James Catholic Church in Millstadt, IL or the Education Fund for Melea, Maya and Marston Karcher 604 W. Van Buren St., Millstadt, IL 62260

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.