William "Neal" Weber

William "Neal" Weber
William "Neal" Weber, 84, of Dittmer, Missouri, passed away on January 31, 2024, in St. Louis, Missouri after a long life full of family, joy, and adventure.
Neal was born on February 16, 1939, to the late William J. and Ella J. (Bruns) Weber in St. Louis, Missouri. Neal is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Jane (Hampton) Weber, two children Robin Sronce (Alan) and Bruce Weber (Joy); four grandchildren Robert "Mike" Sronce (Adriana); Cara Fitzgerald (Sean); John Sronce (Joanna Fay); Alexander Pagel, three great-grandchildren Quinn, Weber, and Leonardo, along with his brother-in-law and friend Hugo Kramme and many nephews, nieces, and dear friends.
Neal's professional journey began as a truck driver for his Uncle Hugo Redhage. Later, alongside his brother-in-law Hugo Kramme, he assumed leadership of the business, navigating the roads from Dittmer to St. Louis for many years. Those who knew him will fondly remember how he could provide meticulous and accurate directions from memory between two places and was quick to offer this gift to anyone in need. In Carterville, he reignited his passion for carpentry, a skill passed down by his father, and became a master craftsman. Many homes in Southern Illinois were adorned with his skilled woodworking, including those of his family and friends.
Beyond his professional endeavors, central to his life was St. Martin's United Church of Christ in Dittmer, MO, where he was baptized and confirmed, and where he raised his children. He wore various hats in the community-serving as Church Council President from 1962-1970, Boy Scouts Cub Master from 1964 to 1973, coaching baseball, and actively participating in church activities. One of Neal's proudest achievements was helping to organize the tax-supported Fire Protection District, of which he also served on the Board.
Neal's love of Cardinal baseball, fishing, hunting, camping, and barbequing brought him much joy and countless memories with family and friends. An ardent supporter of his wife Jane in her passion for international travel, they visited many places, and later in life escaped the winters by heading south in their RV. Neal's infectious smile and quick wit illuminated every room he entered, and he cherished time with his family. He is reunited with his sisters Carol "Jeannie" Kramme and Marilynn Viehland, who preceded him in death along with his parents.
A memorial service will be held at St. Martin's United Church of Christ in Dittmer, Missouri. Visitation will be on Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 9 am – 11 am with service and graveside burial to follow. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Shannondale Camp, 41277 State Hwy 19, Salem, MO 65560.
Family and friends can review and share stories, photos and condolences online at www.stlfuneral.com and follow details of this event and others in the community at www.facebook.com/stlchapelhill.