Homer Richard Kreke

Homer Richard “Rich” Kreke, of Saint Charles, MO, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 in St Charles, MO. He was born February 8, 1938 in Louisville, KY to Homer and Elvina Denzer Kreke.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Gerald Lee Kreke of Bowling Green, KY, and his first child, Lisa Janel Kreke, age 10 months. He is survived by his wife of 64½ years, Barbara Ann Rich; four children, Leigh Olendorff of O'Fallon MO, Paul Kreke of Osage Beach, MO, Amy Pelletier of Crystal Lake, IL, Becky Steinmeyer of O'Fallon, MO; 11 grandchildren, Brett, Justin, Macey, Klein, Robert, Kira, Alexis, Spencer, Carson, Cooper, and Max; 5 great grandchildren, Landon, Kenzie, Persia, Persis, and Karter; sisters-in-law, Sharon Kreke and Rosa Lewis.

Rich earned his Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering, and a Masters Degree in Engineering Physics, from University of Louisville Speed Scientific School in Louisville, KY. His entire 37 year career in aerospace was with McDonnell Douglas - Boeing in St Louis, MO. Early work assignments were on the Gemini Mission Simulator and on the F-15 avionics. He was assigned to support astronaut training at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX for 3 years. Rich finished his career as Manager of the Digital Computer and Software Engineering Department in St Louis, retiring in 1999.

Rich and Barb traveled extensively sailing "the seven seas", visiting all seven continents, and explored many of the major cities of the world. A man of few words but when he spoke, it had impact. He was known to be a perfectionist. He enjoyed his motorcycle, camping, tennis, piano, singing, classical music, photography, and loved to laugh. He loved children, especially his own.

Rich was a member of St. John United Church of Christ in St. Charles, MO. Visitation will be at St. John United Church of Christ, St. Charles, MO from 1pm-2pm. Memorial service to follow at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rich's name to SSM Health Hospice Services.