1950
2015
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Mardy Stovall
May 16, 2023
RJ we kind of miss you here it's nice to hear from Russell if we can but don't know how to get a hold of your brother so you have to have Mom and Dad and your mom and dad and your grandparents and her grandparents so we're going to miss you Richard cuz we came out here everybody likes you call Richard take care and we'll play like a candle for you to Richard okay love cousin Mardy
Pat & Mike Fischer
April 24, 2023
We miss you so much Rich. You were a special loving man that was so kind and giving. The world would be a much better place if we had more people like you in it. You will never be forgotten you will be in our hearts forever.
We love you so much.
Pat Fischer
April 24, 2022
Dear Rich, you are so deeply missed. You made the world a better place my dear. Your kind spirit will always be remembered. I miss you and your sweet mom and dad so very much. You will always have a place in our hearts.
Mike & Pat Fischer
patsy fischer
April 24, 2021
Richard, Mike and I love and miss you so very much. We will always love you sweet Richard.
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Edward J. Blake, Jr.
July 6, 2020
R.J. was one of a kind. Total devotion giving himself to others. May he rest in eternal peace. A life well lived!
Mardell Stovall
August 27, 2017
Cousin we stovall family miss you
Jamal Singleton
June 10, 2015
Mr.Krause.. you came a long way. I remember when you took me to my first trip. You and Russell were amazing coaches and you made sure that the kids were welled token care of.. I will miss you and ill see you again.
Donna Whitworth Sweet
May 17, 2015
So many great memories. I worked the quilt bingo at St. Philip for many years sharing a table with R.J. His job was selling the Pot of Gold, 50/50 tickets. Everyone who purchased a ticket was hoping to win. However, for those of us lucky enough to know R.J., we were the real winners.

God Bless an Excellent Role Model
Andrew Bailey
May 9, 2015
Working with RJ was a real friendship experience. He was always trying to help someone ,very concern and helpful toward the students. His van was always loaded with children from The E. St. Louis Community. His kindness will never be forgotten. Former Wilson Elementary School Co - Worker
~
Andrew Bailey
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/belleville/richard-krause-condolences/174757739?&page=2#sthash.xodC4zDL.dpuf

Olivia Williams
May 8, 2015
We love you Mr. Krause. Thanks for all you did for Olivia and the many other kids. God gave you to us as an angel and He is well pleased. YOU DID GREAT!
Lisa Mayes
May 7, 2015
Richard, Thank you for your life. You represent the Democratic party at election day. You are one of a kind legendary of coaches in sports. Your leadership of delectation to the "RJ All Star Sport Club" shows sportsmanship to a community of underprivileged kids. You taught us the game as well as the love for the players. You encourage cheerleaders to cheer on. Memories of your spirit in our hearts will remain. The wings of an angel you have gain. You are surely missed by family and friends. May God bless you. It is good to know that you once exist on this earth and your spirit will bring us together to pray tribute in your memories. Rest In Peace Richard "RJ" Krause. You are now in a better place.
Willie Stigar
May 6, 2015
As the brother of Victoria Stigar, RJ was my brother in law. I will always love him as family.
Willie Stigar
May 6, 2015
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Jim Renner
May 5, 2015
I've been very blessed to have known RJ and experienced first hand the genuine love and care he showed to everyone around him. Rest in peace big fellow and may I add, Job well done! Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Jim Renner
May 4, 2015
Russell and family my deepest sympathy goes out to you. RJ will be greatly missed by thousands. Rest in peace RJ from Judy Fosnock and family Jennie, Fred Donna Gabioud
Dr. Anita Bazile-Sawyer
May 4, 2015
Thank you so much for caring about us and our futures, inspiring us, and teaching us despite the obstacles. Your spirit was unyielding and your seeds will continue to grow. Rest now, job well done - Coach!
May 4, 2015
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Fredia Luckey
May 4, 2015
As fellow members of St. Philip Parish, my family and I have known RJ and his family for years. As has been witnessed in his obituary, RJ was a very giving person, especially to the children of East Saint Louis. We were so sorry to hear of his passing. Rest with the angels, RJ.
Lonzo Greenwood and family
May 4, 2015
We will miss you R.J. And to Russell and family, may the love of friends and family carry you through your grief
Dennis Herbert
May 3, 2015
I remember the first time encountered RJ,
It was on a ball field and I thought who is this guy RJ KRAUSE and hisall star band of kids tailing him little did I know years later we would meet at Democratic party activities and whe had conversations, he never was a flashy person that's because he lived like the people he tryed to help, he worked in a poor school district for years always working with the youth I do not know how many kids he helped but if just one succeeded because of what he did then he did God's chosen work. May you enjoy your new life and body in heaven with all the real allstars you will be missed.
Chasity Gooch
May 3, 2015
Until I see you again I'm going to light this candle you were everyone's light.
Chasity Gooch
May 3, 2015
Dear Mr. Krause,
You were definitely my leader, my teacher, my coach, my mentor. You have always believed in me, and kept me by your side. I can always remember you saying "Gooch this or " Gooch" that! It was never a dull moment, I appreciated all the outings, and events you made possible for everyone to enjoy and be apart of. You never left anyone out, you made sure there was room even if there wasn't any. I will be missing the photos coming in the mail. I really wish I could have gotten a opportunity to see you again. Until we meet again sleep in peace your buddy, your all time favorite "Gooch".
Victoria Clay
May 3, 2015
Richard a wonderful man to the children in our community. And Russell , His brother and best friend. I and others in our neighborhood will miss Richard.
Frank T. Babka
May 3, 2015
My family and I knew RJ and his family since grade school days at St. PHILIP'S. RJ believed in the life lessons of sports and of its benefit to young men and women in helping form their character. Belief in God served as his life's anchor. God bless him and his family. Sincerely-- Frank Timmy Babka
Smith Barbara
May 3, 2015
I worked with Mr. Krause at Nelson Mandela Elementary school until it closed in 2010. Mr. Krause was a very, very, nice man. He was always willing to do what ever was asked of him. He will be missed. It hurts a lot now, but in time, it will get better.
Sandy & Dorothy Guthrie
May 3, 2015
He was always a great example of how one should live their life. We are sure his rewards in Heaven are abundant. Prayers for Russell and the family.
Danielle Adams
May 3, 2015
Sip Mr Richard RJ Krause. You will be missed.
Keith Pickett
May 3, 2015
When the legendary racehorse Secretariat died in 1989, veterinarians discovered that his heart was like a super-efficient engine, over two-and-a-half times the size of an average horse.
Likewise, R.J.'s heart was much larger than those of normal men. But his was filled with kindness and enthusiasm and such an unselfish ability to help others.
R.J. Krause was a unique individual. It would be impossible to determine the countless number of young people on whom he had a positive effect over the years.
Andrew Bailey
May 3, 2015
Working with RJ was a real friendship experience. He was always trying to help someone ,very concern and helpful toward the students. His van was always loaded with children from The E. St. Louis Community. His kindness will never be forgotten. Former Wilson Elementary School Co - Worker
Barbara Sams
May 2, 2015
To Russell and the entire Krause Family,we will always remember R.J. and his selfless acts of kindness to the students of East St. Louis as well as a kind and friendly classmate at E. St. Louis High School.
Chris Fournie
May 2, 2015
RJ was a very special person and friend. His kind and generous spirit was truly remarkable.
Andy Kinsella
May 2, 2015
When I first encountered R J, I was about 10 and he was about 20 years old. I knew him only as that large man with the even larger voice that coached the kids from St. Phillip. I can still see him pulling up to St. Pat's gym in a beat up car full of someone else's kids. He'd lead them onto the court wearing a sport coat, tie, and his white patent leather shoes. No other coach (mostly dads) "dressed up" for a sixth grade basketball game at 10 o'clock on a Saturday morning. No other coach cared as much as R J.
Back then I didn't realize what was happening. I was a witness to the earliest stages of a life of true ministry to others. A life in which the nurturing and development of young people was far more important than material comforts.
The nuns back at St. Albert the Great taught us that to be a good Catholic we needed more than just faith. We were to perform corporal and spiritual works of mercy. If I didn't understand that then, I do now, and R J was the "text book" example for us all.
May 2, 2015
What a fun, loving, giving person Richard was. Always happy and loved to joke and have fun. He accomplished so much during his life with helping others which he so enjoyed. Richard was always the life of the party. God's love flowed through you, and you were happy to share that with anyone that you have ever met. Mike and I will forever miss you and we will always remember the wonderful memories we have shared. You are with my best friend Jesus and all of out precious family members that have passed before you. What a reunion you are having in heaven. You have deeply touched all of our hearts with your kindness and love. You make my heart smile as I think of you. You will never be forgotten. When it is my time to go to heaven make sure you are there and blow that whistle when you greet me. We will always love you.
Aunt Pat & Mike Fischer
Cindy Geragosian
May 2, 2015
Russell, I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of R. J. He was one of a kind! He was a caring man who loved children and always saw the good in people. He made a difference in the lives of so many. He was my first coach in 4th grade at St. Phillip's school, a family friend and later in life a colleague. He will never be forgotten. He was truly a good man. You're in my prayers, Russell. Heaven gained an angel. May he rest in peace.
Dan Doyle
May 1, 2015
I lot of people profess a Christian life, but never once walk the walk. RJ was one of the rare people who knew he should make a difference,and did. His forum was sports and his constituency was kids. He will be sorely missed.
Dorothy Parton
May 1, 2015
I was only 6 years old when I met RJ. My older sister was in his 6th grade class. I saw him ever day while I waited for my sister. I couldn't wait to be in his classroom when I got older. All my life even after moving away, RJ was part of my world. He drove 200 miles to attend my high school graduation. There are too many good influences and credits to him to name them all. I was just one of the hundreds of kids his love and compassion touched and changed. I will never forget him.
Joe Weilmuenster
May 1, 2015
RJ was a true friend of my family and it was a pleasure knowing this man!
Lakieshs Cook
May 1, 2015
R.j. Krause you will be missed!You were and always will be an amazing man.The things that you did with the children in and around your neighborhood were amazing! I'm a product of what he did for the children in his neighborhood. I'm blessed to have known you .Another angel has got their wings!Tell my mom I said hello and I love and miss her!
Norman Oeth
May 1, 2015
R. J. you are a man of many talents and you proved it to the city of east St. Louis and all of this will not be forgotten. You will be missed by many loved by all of Gods children. RIP my dear friend.
Kelley Roche Shore
May 1, 2015
Great childhood memories from St. Phillip's with R.J Krause. He and Russell were wonderful mentor's to us all. Later in life when I had my own children, I would continue to see RJ and his Allstars at sporting events. I was always impressed with the manners and good sportmanship of his players win or lose. RJ - The Roche Family thanks you for the memories!
Larry Kabat
May 1, 2015
RJ was my 4th and 5th grade teacher at St Charles school in Du Bois. He was my coach for many additional years. Although I have not seen him for years, I know his passing will leave a crevasse never filled, and not easily bridged. He will be missed by many.
May 1, 2015
I was a little guy when I watched RJ and the crew playing whiffle ball on the side of his yard. He was the commentator and a player of the game. Very fond memories. A true HERO.
With Much Sympathy
the Nolen Family
Ron Tapley
May 1, 2015
Great man ,will be missed by many
crystal Collins-green
May 1, 2015
It's so sad that you gone.I remember the first time I met you ,my kids Enjoy going places with you back I. 2002.
art knepper
May 1, 2015
rest in peace mr. krause. you are a man among men.
Chuck Hampton
May 1, 2015
R J was a great man. RIP, my friend.
George Chance
May 1, 2015
Russell, you have my deepest sympathy on the loss of your brother. I know how close the two of you were and were always there for each other. May he rest in peace.
May 1, 2015
So sorry for the passing of a great human being.
Andy Gleeson
April 30, 2015
R.J. Krause; a fixture in the memory of the idyllic childhood I led in E. ST. Louis. R.J. along with Russell ere coaches for the St. Phillip's teams I played against at St. Patrick's, Assumption and the fields at Jones' Park. He and Russell were caring mentors of so many children who needed the "touch" of good men in their lives. the two of them remain in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you R.J. for the shining example to us all. I'm sure there's a new whistle blowing in heaven!
John Smith
April 30, 2015
Russell,
Sorry to hear the sad news. Great memories when he took us to Cardinal
Baseball Games & the 68 World Series, camping out at Bush Stadium for the
tickets. RIP..RJ
Cindy Davinroy Johnson
April 30, 2015
God bless you R.J. You mentored, impacted, and influenced more children and adults than most families do over a lifetime. May your light continue to shine for others through all of us. Russell - Keeping you in my prayers.
Lonnie O'Haver
April 30, 2015
So sad to hear of the passing of Mr. R.J. Krause. I have a lot of fond memories of him from the times he brought his teams to play softball at St. Clair Park. My deepest condolences to Russell and the Krause family on the loss of a great man. RJ, may you rest in peace. Our loss is a great gain for the angels in Heaven.
Mike Greenfield Sr.
April 30, 2015
E.St.Louis will not be the same with the lost of one of it's hero's There was nothing that this man would not do for anyone. RIP. RJ
Ann & Norm Krause
April 30, 2015
We were shocked to read of RJ's passing. He will be greatly missed by many, especially Russell and the many children he has helped over the years.
Kurt Klein
April 30, 2015
Sorry so to hear the passing of RJ! Always enjoyed have he and his teams in our grade school basketball tournaments at Queen of Peace. He will never be forgotten...RIP RJ!
Glen Lemp
April 30, 2015
RJ such a good person I looked forward to talking to you every time I see you. You will be missed by many! Take care Russell I know it will be hard not having your brother by your side.
Thomas Eichacker
April 29, 2015
God has so blessed you Richard and I am so proud to call you friend.
Janet Louchheim (Eisele)
April 29, 2015
What a blessing RJ was to so many! I was on St Phillips first cheerleading squad and RJ coached the basketball team! I still remember cheering for RJ! Great memories! RIP RJ. Thank you for your servants heart. You truly were what we as Christians should be! Praying for Russell!
Janet Rolek
April 29, 2015
Heaven awaits you RJ. You will be missed by everyone who knew you.
May you now Rest In Peace.
Dale Fillback
April 29, 2015
To Russell and the Entire Krause Family My Sincere Condolences! R.J., Russell, Myself and So Many More Are Products of St. Philips Grade School in East St. Louis and Very Proud of It! It Has Been My Privilege To Know R.J., Russell, and the Krause Family for over Fifty Five Years! R.J. You Will Be Missed. Rest In Peace My Friend!
Sergio Cortes
April 29, 2015
When it comes to coaches you are the real deal. You were always about the kids, if you had skills or not you always made everyone feel part of the team. RIP coach RJ you will always be remembered And missed! You made me be the cardinal fan that I am.
rich jordan
April 29, 2015
Reality will set in on Saturdays when I no longer see you at church,God bless.rest in pease
April 29, 2015
My thoughts and prayers to the Krause family today. RJ was a wonderful, kind and giving man. We were school friends and I am so proud to call him my friend. Peace and prayers to all who loved and cared for him.
dawn kite
April 29, 2015
He was a good man and teacher
Mary Jo Cummings-Frain
April 29, 2015
RIP RJ... You are up there with Monsignor Fournie now.
Jim Mourey
April 29, 2015
Our condolences to Russell and the Krause family. One of a kind ! May he rest in Peace ! Russell may you be blessed with good health, as we all know that you were always right there with him. God Bless
Pat Baaeske
April 29, 2015
Russell, so sorry to hear about the loss if your brother. RJ was a great man and loved by many.
Jana Miller
April 29, 2015
Rest in peace, RJ - Thank you for making a difference in this world! You have demonstrated God's love and kindness to so many. Prayers for the family ~
Maxine Goss-Blair
April 29, 2015
RJ you will be truly missed. You were
one in a million. Rest in peace Coach! You are now among God's
Allstars!
Casey Sonnenberg
April 29, 2015
RJ Krause will be missed by thousands in the metro area. What he did for the kids in E St. Louis is a prime example of how selfless this man was.
If everyone were to exemplify just a smidgen of his selflessness, this world would benefit immensely.
RIP to a local legend and a Hall of Famer. He will be missed.
Jennifer Brown
April 29, 2015
He was a great teacher and will be missed by many.
Martin Hrabusicky Sr
April 29, 2015
What a better world it wwould be with more, RJ's. Rest in Peace.
Toni Vasques
April 29, 2015
You will greatly missed!You were my 5 th grade teacher and since then I have never had a teacher like you.You were truly an amazing person and I thank you for everything you have done for me and for everyone else.R.I.P. Mr.Krause!!!!!!
Larry Raines
April 29, 2015
Russell , my deepest condolences to you on the loss of R. J. ! He was able to make a difference for the better in many peoples lives . With all the friends he made through the years R.J. will never be forgotten . R.J. God Bless you my friend !
Judy Peterson
April 29, 2015
When RJ started teaching at Bluffview Park Grade school. In 1979 He gave the school something it hadn't had in a very long time. A great teacher an sports. I will miss talking to you. Even 30+ yrs later. You mean the world to me.
TINA PRAYER
April 29, 2015
R.I.P. U WILL TRULY BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN.
edgar
April 29, 2015
He was a real good man to the kids
Craig Monk
April 29, 2015
You were my basketball coach in 4th grade at Bluff View Park School in Caseyville in 1990 when I was 10. You brought some many different groups together as one when we played basketball. You were awesome at coaching and packing all us kids in your car to the basketball games because the school couldn't afford a bus for after school activities. RIP
Cynthia Wright
April 29, 2015
Thankyou for all you did for the youth of East St Louis. You have touched the lives of so many. The Flyers biggest fan has been called home to the Lord! You are truly going to be missed. Much love and prayers to your family at this time.
killian weir
April 29, 2015
RJ was a true patriot and a true Christian. He shall be missed. Everyone who knew RJ learned alot from him. His tireless work for the poor is something for us to emulate. He is truly a man who merits heaven.
Jan Kapp
April 29, 2015
So sad to hear this - RJ was an awesome, caring man! The Children of E. St. Louis have lost out the most - he cared so much for the children of the area! so sad
Howard Canada
April 29, 2015
May your love for people, RJ, be remembered by all who knew you and may you be rewarded in heaven. Peace to you, your family, and your friends.
Robert Gray
April 29, 2015
You will be missed deeply my coach my friend may you rest in peace
Mike Gonzalez
April 29, 2015
I met Mr. Krause one evening just by chance two people sitting side by side and he turned to me and introduced himself and I too introduced myself. Our conversation was about little and about a lot. Later when I remembered that short conversation. One thing stands out. Wow RJ it just was nice talking to you
Arnie Kinsella
April 29, 2015
What a winner! He established a standard for all of us! Thank you, RJ, and may God bless and keep you!
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