Jeffrey J. Folk

1967 - 2021

Jeffrey James Folk, known to all as Jeff, 54, St. Clair, departed this life Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, at his home.

Jeff was born May 6, 1967, in Jefferson City, the son of James Louis Folk and wife Louise Meta, nee Bockhorst. On Oct. 7, 1995, he was united in marriage to Diana Lynne Gildehaus, and two daughters came to bless this union.

Jeff was a Christian and an active member of Bethel Baptist Church in Lonedell. He especially enjoyed his men's Bible study at the church. After graduation from high school, he attended the University of Missouri, graduating in 1989 with a bachelor's degree in photojournalism. He then went on to attend Ranken Technical School in St. Louis, graduating at the top of his class in auto mechanics. During his working career, he was employed as an auto technician at Schicker Chrysler, formerly Barreth Chrysler in Washington for about 20 years.

Jeff had a variety of interests throughout his life, including his passion for photography, collecting Coleman lanterns and other antiques and going camping. He also loved owning and working on old cars from the 1960s^and 1970s. Jeff also was quite the history buff and enjoyed listening to "oldies but goodies" music from the 1950s. What meant most to him was time spent with his family. The love they shared and the many precious memories they created will be cherished by all of them forever.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Diana Folk, St. Clair; his mother, Louise Folk, Washington; his stepmother, Janet Folk, Springfield; his daughters, Elizabeth Folk and Hannah Folk, both of St. Clair; his mother-in-law, Mary Gildehaus, Cedar Hill; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Folk, and his father-in-law, Alvin Gildehaus.

Funeral services were held at noon Tuesday, Sept. 14, at Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair, with the Rev. Ben Kingston officiating.

Interment was in Bethel Cemetery, Lonedell.

Memorials can be made to Bethel Baptist Church, Lonedell.

The Folk family was served by Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.