Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home

09/18/2025

Berniece Weirich

January 7, 1929 - September 13, 2025

Berniece B. E. "Susie" Weirich, 96, of Robertsville, MO, passed away on September 13, 2025. Mrs. Weirich, daughter of the late Edward Fox and Daisy McDaniel, was born on January 7, 1929, in St. Louis. On September 28, 1957, she was united in marriage to Floyd Weirich at Calvey Baptist Church.

Berniece enjoyed cooking for her family, working in her garden and canning, and sewing clothes for her family. She was also very active at Calvey Baptist Church, serving as both the secretary and pianist, and taught Sunday School.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Floyd Weirich; and brother, Edward Fox Jr.

Among her survivors are her children, Jeanne Rochat and husband Ron of Gray Summit, Jeanette Applegate and husband Kevin of Pacific, and Rob Weirich and wife Diane of Albuquerque, NM; grandchildren, Katelyn Rochat, William Applegate, Jennifer Maher and husband Matthew, Beth Harrod and husband Drew, Abby Weirich, and Rachel Weirich; two sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10-12 p.m. at Calvey Baptist Church, Robertsville, MO, with a funeral service beginning at 12 p.m. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to Calvey Baptist Church or the Calvey Baptist Church Cemetery.

Arrangements in care of Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home, Pacific.

07/24/2025

Lana L. Steele

July 31, 1945 - July 20, 2025

Lana L. Steele, 79, of Pacific, passed away on July 20, 2025. Mrs. Steele, daughter of the late Fannie Barnard, was born on July 31, 1945, in Springfield, MO. She received her education from Southwest State College in Springfield, MO. She was united in marriage to James Perry Steele.

Mrs. Steele loved spending time with her family, cherishing every moment and holding them close to her heart. She found great joy in sewing, often crafting special keepsakes for her loved ones, and delighted in preparing delicious meals for gatherings. Shopping excursions brought her happiness, and she was always eager to eat cheesecake and pumpkin pie, savoring the sweetness of each treat as much as the company with whom she shared them.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband James Perry Steele.

Among her survivors are two children, Chad Steele and wife Shelby of Pacific and Lisa Chrisco of Pacific; grandchildren, Blake Steele of Washington, Jacob Chrisco of Pacific, and Ryan Chrisco and wife Katie of Robertsville; loved ones and friends.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home, with a funeral service beginning at 7 p.m. Memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimers Association.

04/08/2025

Riley Pemberton Jr.

February 8, 1932 - April 6, 2025

Riley Pemberton Jr., born in Crescent, MO, on February 28, 1932, passed away peacefully at the age of 93, on April 6, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and respected member of his community, Riley will be remembered for his pride of growing up in Crescent, MO, and his kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for his family.

Riley married the love of his life, Dorothy Pearl Adams, on May 24, 1952, and together they shared over 72 years of marriage filled with love and support. Their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them.

Riley served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, a time that deeply shaped his character and instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty and respect for others.

He spent much of his professional life working at Cupples Products Inc. as a shipping and receiving clerk, where he was known for his hard work and dedication. Beyond his career, Riley was deeply committed to serving his community. He was a member of the Gray Summit Lions Club for 52 years, where he contributed to countless community initiatives and made lasting friendships. He dedicated many years as a Scout Master of the Boy Scouts of America and served as a bible school teacher at the First Baptist Church of Gray Summit. Additionally, he volunteered his time as Khoury League baseball coach, fostering a love of sports and teamwork in young athletes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Riley and Opal Pemberton; brothers, Glen(Louise) and Bobby; sisters, Eula, Euna, Zella(John) and Reba(Junior); brothers-in-law, Roy Gibbs and Ed Hicks.

Riley is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy; children, Debbie(Randy) Wright and son Bill(Pam) Pemberton; grandchildren, Tammy Espowe, JR(Laura) Pemberton, Jessica Livengood, and Mike Pemberton; sisters, Shirley Gibbs and Alice Hicks; brother, Butch Pemberton; sister-in-law, Sharon Pemberton; eight great-grandchildren, and a host of family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A visitation for Riley will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home, 231 E. Union St., Pacific, MO. Funeral services will take place at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11 a.m., with burial to follow at the Sunset Cemetery. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Gray Summit Lions Club or to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Riley’s legacy of love, service, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

02/19/2025

Cleon F. Schneider

January 11, 1938 - February 16, 2025

Cleon F. Schneider, 87, of Villa Ridge, passed away on February 16, 2025. Mr. Schneider, son of the late Leo Schneider and Flora nee Hagemann, was born on January 11, 1938, in Washington. He received his education from St. Francis Borgia High School. On May 30, 1959, he was united in marriage to Wanda Glaze at Sacred Heart Church in Eureka.

Cleon enjoyed golfing, tending to his garden, working on his lawn, and deep-sea fishing. He also loved to bake, but most of all he cherished time with his family. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 60 years and a member of the Air National Guard.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cindy Vaughan; three siblings, Robert “Bob” Schneider, JoAnn Schneider, and Ronald “Ronnie” Schneider; granddaughter, Amanda Vaughan; daughter-in-law, Linda Schneider, and two sister-in-laws, Marlies and Beverly Schneider.

Among his survivors are his wife, Wanda Schneider of Villa Ridge; three children, Phillip Schneider of Pacific, Kevin Schneider of Pacific, and Jeanette Hammett and husband Keith of Springfield, MO; brother, Dennis Schneider and wife Dixie of Washington; grandchildren, Rebecca Stockdale and husband Chris, Ellie Duckworth and husband Andrew, Jacy Hammett, Cory Schneider, Nicholas Schneider, and Madeline Schneider; great-grandchildren, Lala Schneider and Edward Huckabee; loved ones and friends.

A visitation will be held on March 14, 2025, from 9-10:45 a.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Memorial Mass will begin at 11 a.m. on March 14, 2025, at St. Bridget’s Church in Pacific.

Memorial donations can be made to the Knights of Columbus Scholarship Fund at St. Bridget’s Church.

Arrangements in care of Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home.

02/12/2025

**Please note the visitation and service date have changed.

Susan D. Staples

December 17, 1953 - February 8, 2025

After a 10-year battle with cancer, Susie Staples, 71, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025.

Susan Diane Staples, nee Almstedt, born December 17, 1953, at Deaconess Hospital, St. Louis, MO to Robert Charles and Rosemary Martha Almstedt, nee Mertz.

Susie married John Thomas Staples on February 18, 1978, bore a son, Kevin Andrew Staples, and daughter Jill Marie Staples.
She attended Catawissa Union Church and graduated from Meramec Valley High School in 1972, completed a two-year degree at East Central Junior College, Union, MO. Worked at St. Francis Hospital, Washington, MO; Alton Box Board Factory, Pacific, MO; First United Methodist Church, Sulphur, OK; and 24 years with National Park Service, serving at Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur, OK; and Fort Scott National Historic Site, Fort Scott, KS. Retired May 2016.

Survived by husband, John, Kevin, daughter-in-law Erin, grandchildren Mckenzie and Tucker of Howe, OK; Jill and Lucas Hudson of Ada, OK; very close family friend, Madlen Franklin of Ada, OK.
Brother: Steven Almstedt, Gerald, MO
Uncle David Mertz High Ridge, MO
Sister-in-laws: Peggy Staples, Cornelia, GA, Maragret Staples, Miami, FL, and Diane Almstedt, Gerald, MO
Brother-in-law: Robert Staples, Miami, FL
Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, Great nieces and nephews. Friends and co-workers

Preceded in death, parents, Robert and Rosemary, and brother Scott Almstedt and sister-in-law Nancy, Uncle Arville Mertz.

Visitation will be held at Nieburg-Vitt Thiebes Funeral Home in Pacific, MO on Friday, March 7, 2025, 4:00pm – 7:00pm. Funeral Service will be held at Catawissa Union Church on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10:00am. Interment at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Catawissa, MO.

Memorials can be made to American Cancer Society or Catawissa Union Church Ladies Aide or Memorial Fund.

01/21/2025

Steven C. Hartzler

November 11, 1954 - January 19, 2025

Steven C. Hartzler, 70, of Cuba, passed away on January 19, 2025. Mr. Hartzler, son of the late A. David Hartzler and Dorothy nee LeSieur, was born on November 11, 1954, in St. Louis, MO. He received his education at Pacific High School, class of 1973. Mr. Hartzler served his country honorably as a member of the United States Army.

Steve was an over-the-road trucker for years; and his heart truly belonged to the open road. The hum of the engine and the endless highways were his sanctuary. He loved his job with a passion that was palpable, finding freedom and solace in every mile he drove. For over 23 years, he proudly drove for Schneider National, amassing an incredible 1,903,680 miles. Each mile was a testament to his dedication, skill, and unwavering love for the journey.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Among his survivors are his wife, Kathleen Hartzler of Cuba, MO; three daughters, Shannon Thompkins and husband Kevin of Liberty, MO, Terra Henry and husband Rick of Lakeville, MN, and Jaemy Hartzler of Cuba, MO; son, Jesse Mills of Washington, MO; six grandchildren, Drake, Loren, Ashlynn, Cadyn, Talen, and Grant; Father-in-law, James Nordeck Sr. of Parkersburg, WV; lifelong best friend, Jim Moore of Pacific, MO; other relatives, and countless friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt,Thiebes Funeral Home in Pacific, MO, with a funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. Interment with full military honors will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Cuba, MO.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Rescue Center in Cuba, MO.

Last Wishes: Always put your cart away…because we all know Steve will be watching!

01/14/2025

Paula B. Nolley

August 2, 1952 - January 10, 2025

Paula B. Nolley, 72, of Fenton, passed away on January 10, 2025. Mrs. Nolley, daughter of the late Bob Jones and Veda Pauline nee White, was born on August 2, 1952, in Poplar Bluff, MO. She received her education from Poplar Bluff High School and Southeast Missouri State University, with a bachelor’s degree in music education. Paula married Fred Nolley in 1974.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Among her survivors are her son, Jeremy Nolley and wife Tara of Fenton; two siblings, Steven Jones and wife Nellen of Springfield, MO and Gregg Jones and wife Ali of Dallas, TX; two grandchildren, Kaylee and Loren Nolley; other relatives and friends. Her family remembers her as someone who poured her heart and soul into others and brought out the best in them.

Paula was an accomplished pianist and dedicated music teacher. She taught music full-time for 27 years in the Meramec Valley R3 School District from 1974-2001. Paula continued directing musicals at Pacific High School through the fall of 2024. Paula directed 32 high school musicals and 25 elementary musical productions.

Paula was the vocal director of 33 musical productions at East Central College. She was also the rehearsal accompanist and principal keyboard player for many of the productions.

Paula was a devoted Christian and showed the love of Christ in all that she did. She played piano at many churches throughout her life, most recently the United Methodist Church in Pacific.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Pacific. Memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society of Missouri.

01/01/2025

Colleen M. Swanson

June 19, 1962 - December 25, 2024

Colleen Marie Swanson, 62, of Pacific, passed away unexpectedly on December 25, 2024. Born on June 19, 1962, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Robert Mealer and Margaret nee Oonk.

Colleen graduated from Pacific High School and continued her education at Cottey College and Fontbonne University. She retired from Schnucks and embarked on a new chapter, working for the Meramec Valley R-III School District. However, Colleen's proudest "promotion" came with the title of "Granny." She adored her grandchildren and loved sharing stories of their adventures with everyone she knew.

Known for her warm heart and infectious enthusiasm, Colleen was cherished by family and friends. She was a devoted listener, always willing to lend an ear, and never missed a chance to socialize. Her kindness extended beyond her loved ones, as she frequently volunteered her time to various community organizations. A passionate Cardinals fan, Colleen relished attending games and celebrating their victories. Her love for dogs was undeniable, particularly her deep affection for the Newfoundland breed.

Colleen is survived by her children: Brandon Swanson of Pacific; Rachael Mathis and her husband, Dalton, of Pacific; and Natalie Cook and her husband, Andy, of Wildwood. She is also survived by her siblings: Karen Belleville of Eureka, MO; and Jim Mealer and his wife, Mary, of Vienna, MO. Her grandchildren, August, Bennett, Tenley, and Hudson, will deeply miss their beloved Granny. Colleen leaves behind her cherished dogs, Willow and Hope, who will deeply miss their loving owner, along with numerous other loved ones and friends.

A visitation will be held on January 3, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at the New Beginnings Church in Pacific.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a memorial donation to NewfoundHaven Rescue & Hospice in memory of Colleen, honoring her love for the Newfoundland dog breed and the rescue work she deeply cared about.

As we gather to honor and celebrate the life of our beloved mom, we ask that you please join us in wearing one of the following as a tribute to her:
• St. Louis Cardinals gear-- in recognition of her love for the team.
• The color Purple-- to represent her favorite color and her support for the MVR-III Pacific Indians community.
• A shirt featuring a dog-- in remembrance of her special bond with the Newfoundland breed.
Your presence and support mean so much to us, and these small gestures will help us celebrate her life in a way that felt meaningful to her.

Arrangements are under the care of Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home, Pacific.

12/18/2024

Margaret G. Maher

April 20, 1953 - December 16, 2024

Margaret Grace Maher died December 16, 2024, at her home in Pacific, MO. She was born April 20, 1953, at Columbus hospital in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Eugene Kwarcinski (deceased) and Grace (Fliss) Kwarcinski.

After Marge graduated from Steimetz High School in 1971, she attended National College of Education (Evanston, IL) where she graduated (1975) with a degree in Elementary Educations and Science. She taught for over 30 years at various schools and later obtained a Master of Science degree in Education from Southwest Baptist University in 2012. She retired from teaching in 2017.

In 1974 she married Michael Maher. Marge pursued many interests throughout her life. She loved traveling, sewing, gardening, bee-keeping, puzzles, card games, camping, kayaking, anything involving science or nature, the stars and night sky, fishing, enjoying a chilled glass of wine with family and friends, sharing her extraordinary life. Marge and Mike recently celebrated 50 years of marriage on December 14.

Surviving, in addition to her husband, Michael, are her son Michael Maher and his wife Regan; daughters, Jessica Kinkelaar and her husband Josh, Katherine Robertson, Theresa Maher, Carolyn Stultz and her husband Gunnar; nine grandchildren, Elise Maher, Anna Maher, William Maher, Courtney Kinkelaar, Cody Kinkelaar, Claire Robertson, Juliet Robertson, Orland Stultz and Rosemary Stultz; two brothers, John Kwarcinski and wife Joanne, Paul Kwarcinski and wife Karen, one sister, Anne Woehrle and husband Don; many nieces and nephews.

Visitation services will be held be held Sunday, December 22 between 2:00 – 5:00 PM at Nieburg-Vitt,Thiebes Funeral Home, 231 E. Union Street, Pacific, MO. Funeral will be held Monday, December 23 at 10am at St. Bridget of Kildare Church, 111 W. Union Street, Pacific, MO.

Those who wish to remember Marge in a special way may make gifts to St. Bridget’s Tuition Assistance Fund, where a fund has been set up in her name: https://www.wesharegiving.org/app/giving/WeShare-20001147?tab=home
You are welcome to share photos, memories and stories here: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/cHEdgN0G

Collaborate to create a unique, online memorial. Add memories, photos, or videos; invite others to contribute; visit online anytime and print it out as a book of remembrance.

11/05/2024

Walter Schlemper

May 8, 1934 - November 2, 2024

Walter A. Schlemper ,90, of Pacific, passed away on November 2, 2024. Mr. Schlemper, son of the late Arnold G. Schlemper and Sophie nee Stricker, was born on May 8, 1934, on the family farm north of Pacific, and also where he took his last breath. He received his education from Washington High School, graduating in 1952, where he also received the Missouri FFA State Farmer Award. Mr. Schlemper served his country honorably as a member of the United States Army in 1957 and 1958. On June 10, 1961, he was united in marriage to Therissa Dickinson at the Gray Summit Methodist Church.

Mr. Schlemper was employed at Purina Farms for over 41 years as a swine and cattle herdsman. He was an active member of the Missouri Draft Horse and Mule Association. Walter also enjoyed wood working and was the author of three books.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Richard Schlemper.

Among his survivors are his wife Therissa Schlemper of Pacific; three children, Michael Schlemper and CarolAnn Russell-Wething(Dave) of Bemidji, MN, Carol Shoemaker and husband Eric of Pacific, and Amy Fifer and husband Steve of Pleasant Hill, MO; brother, Ralph Schlemper and wife Susan of St. Louis; grandchildren, Heidi Todd and husband Michael, Jesse Shoemaker and wife April Brandt, Josef Schlemper, and Zoey Schlemper and wife Marisa; great-grandchildren, Augustus Shoemaker and Ila Shoemaker; sister-in-law, Billie Ellen Schlemper of Pacific; niece, Deborah Brandt and husband Thomas; nephews, Kenneth Schlemper and wife Cheryl, Karl Schlemper and wife Lori, and Kevin Schlemper and wife Tiffany; great-nieces and nephews, cousins, loved ones, and many friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Funeral Service will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Midlawn Memorial Gardens in Union. Memorial donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors or Backstoppers of Franklin County.

10/17/2024

Dorl C. Thornton

March 30, 1934 - October 15, 2024

Dorl C. Thornton, 90, of Union, formerly of Pacific, passed away on October 15, 2024. Mr. Thornton, son of the late William Thornton and Mary Alexander, was born on March 30, 1934, in Brumley, MO. He received his education from Pacific High School. On March 7, 1953, he was united in marriage to Patricia Olmstead at the Pacific Methodist Church.

Dorl loved baseball, football and golf. For many years Dorl and Patricia enjoyed spending time at their place at the Lake of the Ozarks. They also volunteered at the Pacific Senior Center.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary C. Thornton and four siblings, Claude Thornton, Frank Thornton, Clyde Thornton, and Frieda Bandy.

Among his survivors are his wife, Patricia Thornton of Union; three children, Carla Schuler and husband Mark of Maryland Heights, Darla Woolford and husband James of Washington, and Eric Thornton and wife Pamela of Anaheim, CA; siblings, Thelma Vaughn of Sullivan, Kathleen Branson of Eureka, Ruth Thornton of Colorado, Paul Thornton of Treloar, James Thornton and wife Cathy of Marthasville, and Gary Thornton and wife Jan of Pacific; six grandchildren, Matthew Davenport and wife Amy, Chad Smith and wife Jennifer, Molly Davenport, Cori Smith, Trevor Thornton, and Austin Thornton; thirteen great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-laws, Linda Watson and Nadine Thornton; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2024, from 2-5 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 12 p.m. on Monday, October 21, 2024, at Nieburg-Vitt, Thiebes Funeral Home. Interment will be in the Midlawn Memorial Gardens in Union. Memorial donations can be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

09/12/2024

Mary E. Witte

May 26, 1940 - September 8, 2024

Mary Ellen Witte, 84, of Pacific, passed away on September 8, 2024. Mrs. Witte, daughter of the late Jeffrey McClain and Ethel nee Creasey, was born on May 26, 1940, in Tennessee. She received her education from Soldan High School. On September 26, 1959, she was united in marriage to Robert Witte at St. Leo’s Church in St Louis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Robert Witte and two brothers, Earl and Johnny McClain.

Among her survivors are three daughters, Joyce Dann and husband Larry of Pacific, Lorie Fox and husband Bob of Webster Groves, and Donna Warren of Pacific; brother-in-law, Daniel Witte of Pacific; grandchildren, Lawrence Dann, Emily Casey and husband Josh, and Jackie McSalley and husband Patrick; great-grandchildren, Skylar Casey, Jackson Casey, Cayden McSalley, and Colin McSalley; other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 16, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt,Thiebes Funeral Home, 231 E. Union St., Pacific, MO 63069. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at the St. Bridget’s Church in Pacific. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.