Kenneth Schirmer

Kenny "BIGFOOT" Schirmer 9/13/60 (Age 64) Kenny was the definition of big. 7ft tall—you couldn't miss him! He was big in the way he told a story with so much animation. He laughed big with knee slapping that shook the room. He wrote big and bold with his black felt tipped marker (inside joke). Heck, he was even approached to be a professional wrestler at one point. However, he opted to be a truck driver and what an adventure it has been for the entire family! Speaking of big, his work ethic was HUGE. He loved his Peterbilt—he fit in that truck like a glove. He lived to provide for and to protect his family. He died doing what he loved—driving that truck. Most importantly, he loved his family the biggest! He loved his wife Tina with his whole heart. He was a gentle giant and had the biggest heart (literally and figuratively). He passed his height & work ethic traits down to his two children who he was SO proud of. He adored his grandkids always offering out his big hand for a high five. He loved BIG! Kenny was born and raised in Altenburg. He and Tina moved to Cape Girardeau eight years ago. On Wednesday evening December 11, 2024 Tina received the call that no trucker's wife wants to receive—"your husband was in a tragic accident". He passed away a few hours later at Mercy St. Louis. He is survived by his loving wife Tina of 42 years, their two new puppies Max & Maddie (16 weeks), daughter MaKenzie LaRose (Ryan), son Colin Schirmer (Rachel), grandchildren MaKenna LaRose (7), Maddox LaRose (1.5), parents Clarence and Vivian Schirmer of Altenburg, siblings Carolyn Schirmer, Lori Johnson (Raymond), Lois Bader, Neal Schirmer (Michelle), nieces and nephews Loralee King (Alex), John Bader (Tori), Carley Schirmer, Myles McClure, and Maya McClure. He is also survived by his in-laws Jim and Joyce Regelsperger and sister in law Michelle McClure-Borgfield (Glen). Proceeded in death by grandparents Rudolph (Rudy) & Alma Schirmer, Henry & Erna Kassel, the loss of pregnancy (grandchild), and many former pets most recently the beloved Murphy (14). We know one thing is for sure, Bigfoot and Hambone (Gary Weinhold) are sitting around telling trucking stories in heaven. He has also probably caught up with Petey Lueders, and now is really "living the dream". Rest in peace, we love you, and your memories/stories will leave a legacy in our family. Visitation will be 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Ford & Young East Perry Chapel in Altenburg. Funeral Service will be at 10:00 am Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Altenburg with the Rev. Rod Benkendorf officiating. Burial will be at Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery in Altenburg. Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com. Ford & Sons Funeral Home - Mt. Auburn is in charge of arrangements.

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Kenneth Schirmer

September 13, 1960 - December 11, 2024