Wilfred G. Hoecker, age 86, of St. Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, May 1, 2023, at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Jefferson City with his family by his side. He was born in St. Elizabeth on October 12, 1936, son of the late Herbert and Catherine (Bax) Hoecker. On May 28, 1960, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in St. Elizabeth, Wilfred was united in marriage to Clara Brenneke, who survives at their home.

Wilfred was a life-long resident of St. Elizabeth. He served in the U.S. Army from March 7, 1957, until his honorable discharge on March 5, 1959. He had a 39-year career with the Missouri Highway Department as a drilling superintendent until his retirement in 1998. Wilfred was a devoted and faithful member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church.

Wilfred had an unwavering work ethic and took great pride in caring for his farm. His favorite pastime was coon hunting, and he went by the CB handle name, Ringtail. Wilfred was a captivating storyteller, and his wit and humor were legendary. His family will cherish the countless memories he created over the years and will fondly recall Wilfred's famous goodbye phrase …. "Toodle Loo".

In addition to his loving wife of 62 years, Clara Hoecker, he is also survived by seven children, Becky (BJ) Schwaller of Marys Home, Janelle (Mark) Wieland of Lone Elm, Greg (Christine) Hoecker of St. Elizabeth, Tammie Strein of Jamestown, Shane (Lanelle) Hoecker of St. Elizabeth, Brad (Jennifer) Hoecker of St. Elizabeth, and Kent (Milinda) Hoecker of St. Elizabeth; 28 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren with three on the way; one great-great granddaughter; three siblings, Lois Lueckenhoff, Marcella Gaske, and Alfred (Lorraine) Hoecker; and numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Victor Lueckenhoff and Edward Gaske.

Funeral Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in St. Elizabeth with Deacon Steve Schwartze officiating. Interment with military honors will be held in St. Lawrence Cemetery in St. Elizabeth.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 7 p.m., on Thursday, May 4, at the St. Elizabeth Community Center.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St. Lawrence Cemetery, or SSM Health Jefferson City Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program.