Clarence "Bud" Eberhardt

Clarence “Bud” David Eberhardt, 90, of St. Charles, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on March 26, 2026.

Bud was born on October 22, 1935, in O’Fallon, Illinois. He was raised in the Catholic faith and served as an altar boy in his younger years, a role that reflected the strong values that stayed with him throughout his life. He graduated from O’Fallon High School in 1953.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1958, where his lifelong love of aircraft began. That passion continued well beyond his military service, leading him to a long career with McDonnell Douglas. Starting on the flight line, Bud worked his way up through dedication and hard work into management before retiring.

On September 18, 1959, Bud married Margaret Louise “Lou” Goldsmith, the love of his life. Together they built a life grounded in love, family, and unwavering commitment to one another. Lou preceded him in death in 2024, and he carried her memory with him always.

Bud enjoyed music, dancing, and playing guitar. He taught Lou how to dance, and I loved watching them together—they were a striking couple on the dance floor, whether doing the jitterbug or square dancing. He also enjoyed playing his guitar and sharing those moments with family.

Bud taught Lou how to bowl as well, and he went on to coach our junior bowling league, sharing his love of the game with his children. Together, Bud and Lou created lasting memories through bowling, family camping trips, and fishing adventures—simple joys that meant everything to them.

Growing up, family camping and fishing trips were a big part of life. Bud taught his children how to fish, and those lessons turned into lifelong traditions. As the years went on, those special moments continued—whether on family vacations or quieter occasions when it was just one child and Dad on a fishing trip, time that will always be cherished.

Above all, Bud was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He found his greatest happiness in his family and took pride in being a steady, caring presence in their lives. He is survived by his children, Catherine Louise Eberhardt and Kenneth Joseph Eberhardt; his grandchildren, Samantha Louise Digrispino and Anthony Paul Digrispino; and his great-grandchildren, Charles, Caleb, Madison, and Sydney, all of whom will miss him deeply.

Bud will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet strength, his work ethic, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the memories he created and the lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 2, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Baue Funeral Home in Cave Springs. A funeral service will take place on Friday, April 3, at 9:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the USO or Siteman Cancer Center.