Theresa Elizabeth Bruegenhemke

Theresa Elizabeth “Betty” Bruegenhemke, age 87, of O’Fallon, MO peacefully passed with loved ones by her side on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Betty was born on December 22, 1935, the daughter of Robert D. Killday and Esther Ellen (Witherow) Killday of Edina, MO. Betty graduated from Edina High School in 1953 and married James Edward Bruegenhemke on April 28, 1956, in Edina, Missouri.

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 67 inspiring years, James “Jim” E. Bruegenhemke, her children, Eddie (April) Bruegenhemke of Edina, MO, MaryBeth (Paul) Renaud of O’Fallon, MO, Jerry (Linda) Bruegenhemke of Cottleville, MO, Donna (Steve) Mulherin of O’Fallon, MO, Diane (Kevin) Gilbert of Wentzville, MO, Jim (Jane) Bruegenhemke of Wentzville, MO, and Mark (Kim) Bruegenhemke of Wentzville, MO. Betty is survived by 32 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, her siblings Danny Mike Killday, Dennis (Linda) Killday, and Mary Carol (Mike) Early.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Rob and Esther Killday, grandson, Adam “AJ” Renaud, and her brothers Bob Killday, Terry Killday, and Bill Killday.

Betty’s love for her husband, family, faith, friends, adventure, and laughter inspires us all. She taught us all the importance of working hard and celebrating life with those you love. Her strong will guided us when we drifted off track and taught us to protect and defend when we had been wronged. She was so proud of her family and their accomplishments, yet humble enough not to even realize her love, guidance, and role modeling were instrumental to the outcomes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested as Mass intentions or donations in Betty’s name at :

Assumption Parish 403 N. Main Street, O’Fallon, MO 63366 or

St. Joseph Church, 509 Main Street, Edina, MO 63537 or Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Missouri - Greater Missouri Chapter