Arthur Robert Baumgartner
Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Arthur Robert Baumgartner went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the age of 84.
He was the beloved husband of Jacqueline Rita Baumgartner for many years. Art was a devoted father to Suzanne Bennett (Joe), Mary Larkin (Keith), Ken Talley (Ann), and Christine Talley. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Joe Bennett, Nicole Townsend, Anthony Larkin, Aaron Larkin, Alec Larkin, Madison Talley, Marissa Talley, Emma Talley, Caitlyn Slaughter, and Cassie Slaughter. Art was also a proud great-grandfather to Logan & Ava Townsend and Wren Larkin.
Art’s love for his faith and his church, Sacred Heart in Crystal City, was unwavering. He married Jackie and embraced the responsibility of raising her four children as his own, providing a loving home filled with faith and devotion. His commitment to his family was evident in every sacrifice he made. He ensured that his children attended church every Sunday and that they gathered weekly for the rosary or other devotions. His love, support, and care for them were constant throughout his life. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Art’s work ethic was second to none. He began his career as a meat cutter but, after Cook’s Grocery store closed, took on multiple jobs to support his family. He worked at the Can Plant on Lower Tenbrook in Arnold, trimmed trees, and later found steady employment at Laclede Gas. Despite long hours digging ditches, Art always found time to play with his children or work on their home, ensuring they were surrounded by love, even when money was tight. He and Jackie found joy in simple pleasures, often sharing a modest meal at Burger King, their favorite date spot when they could spare a few dollars.
In addition to his work and family life, Art had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed cracking jokes, making nicknames for people, and playing cards or pool with family and friends. Later in life, when he and Jackie were more comfortable financially, he took great pleasure in tipping waitresses generously and supporting causes he cared about. He regularly donated to Sacred Heart and gave back to the community by providing turkeys at Thanksgiving and helping those in need.
In a final act of generosity, Art chose to donate his body to St. Louis University for medical research.
Services: A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Crystal City, 555 Bailey Road, Crystal City, MO 63019 at 11:00 a.m. The Rosary will precede the Mass starting at 10:40 a.m.
Art will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, sacrifice, humor, and faith will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
May he rest in peace.
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HENRY W WIGGERS says
December 22, 2024 at 9:57 amSo Sorry to hear this news. My parents were huge fans of Art, as was I. I will fondly remember all the get togethers with “The Gang” .Art was always in good cheer and an absolute Gem of a person. He Will be missed. Jackie and family and Don please accept my most heartfelt sympathies.
Dan and Karen B says
December 12, 2024 at 2:06 amHe was the “cool” uncle who during his single years hung out with some of the older nephews. He had one of the early Dodge Chargers, a pinball machine and pool table in his basement. He took three of us on a road trip to Texas to see the Jones family his sister Fran’s family in the Charger. Meeting Jackie at I believe their high school reunion and then her family definitely completed his life.
Laurie Chappell says
December 11, 2024 at 12:47 amI have many memories as a kid of Uncle Art at our family gatherings making me and others laugh…I can hear his laugh now…hugs and condolences to Aunt Jackie and all the kids on their big loss…what a life…he will be missed by many. Love Laurie (Baumgartner) John, Sohie, and Henry Chappell
Anonymous says
December 11, 2024 at 12:46 amI have many memories as a kid of Uncle Art at our family gatherings making me and others laugh…I can hear his laugh now…hugs and condolences to Aunt Jackie and all the kids on their big loss…what a life…he will be missed by many. Love Laurie (Baumgartner) John, Sohie, and Henry Chappell
Bob & Karen Baumgartner says
December 9, 2024 at 6:49 pmUncle Art always had a joke to bring smiles to peoples’ faces. He made the world a better place for many people, and he will be missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.