Kenneth LeClaire

Kenneth Joseph LeClaire, 88 of Bethalto, Illinois passed away at his home, surrounded by family, on Saturday, October 10, 2026. He was born in Portage Des Sioux, Missouri to Joseph Francois and Pearl Louise (Timmermeier) LeClaire on July 18, 1938.

He married his wife Louise on March 27, 1964 and they celebrated 59 years of marriage before her passing in 2023. The two of them loved vacationing, many times with an RV full of grandchildren. For years Kenny and Louise were resident caretakers and “worked summer youth camp” at Camp Hugh in Bunker Hill, Illinois, where they touched the lives of many, many youth. The LeClaire home was often a place of refuge for several young people who were struggling, providing them a safe space, instilling hope for their future and guiding them in a positive direction.

Kenny had a strong work ethic his entire life. He started working on his grandparent’s farm in West Alton, Missouri as a youth, alongside his older brother Bill. As a young man he worked construction, much of it as a hod-carrier. He then worked at Olin as a mechanic and furnace builder, retiring after 40 years of service. Along with his principle jobs through the years, he picked up tree trimming and labor jobs to provide additionally for his family. He was adept at working on cars and carpentry, remodeling several family homes through the years.

In his younger days, at first glance, Ken could look a little intimidating. A tall handsome man, strong back, broad shoulders, arms that were seriously toned from hard work; he had a stance and smile that kind of said, “Don’t even think about messing with me”. But inside that strong assuming physique was a giant tender heart. Kenny was observant and quick to help someone without being asked, and without wanting to be noticed. If he knew you needed help, he was there for you.

For those that got to know him, they found out that he had a playful sense of humor. He enjoyed coffee with his friends. You learned quickly, if he was ribbing or teasing you, he liked you.

Ken was a man of God. He had grown up in the Catholic Church, but converted to the Baptist faith in the late 1960’s. He was dedicated to the mission of the Church and served as a Deacon at Bunker Hill Baptist Church. He wasn’t an evangelist, nor a teacher, but he labored behind the scenes to facilitate the ministry of others. In his final days, he assured his family that Christ was his redeemer and savior, and he was ready for heaven.

Kenny is survived by two brothers, William “Bill” LeClaire of Edwardsville, Illinois and Leslie “Les” LeClaire of Florissant, Missouri; by his four children, Doyle (Cheryl) Hale of Edwardsville, Illinois; Dezina (James) Tumulty of Omaha, Arkansas; Penny (Scott) Thompson of Brighton, Illinois; and Gregory (Lauren) LeClaire of Alton, Illinois. Ken is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel “Louise” LeClaire; both parents; a brother Donald “Don” LeClaire, a sister Judith “Judy” (LeClaire) Colbert; and two infant great-grandchildren, Clementine Hale and Marigold O’Donnell.

In accordance with Ken’s wishes, cremation has been arranged. Interment will be at Woodburn Cemetery, alongside his wife, Louise.

A memorial service will be held at Fosterburg Baptist Church, 4737 Fosterburg Rd, Bethalto, Illinois 62010 (Fosterburg) on October 24, 2026. Visitation will start at 10:00 am. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am.

The family thanks the OSF St. Anthony’s Hospice Care Team, the entire staff at Villa Rose Senior Living, and Paynic Home for Funerals.

Memorial donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or Fosterburg Baptist Church.

Information and an online guestbook are available at www.paynicfh.com.