Remembrance and Celebration of Life

Gary Ralph Ebrecht was born June 3, 1961, in Granite City, IL, to Elmer Leroy and Martha Lee (Brown) Ebrecht, both of whom preceded him in death. He was youngest of their five sons. His brothers included William, James, Ronald, and Thomas. Both William (Tobie) and Thomas, who died in infancy, preceded him in death. James (Betty) survives in Montrose, CO; Ronald survives in New Haven, CT.

Gary attended Webster School, Coolidge Junior and Granite City Senior High Schools, graduating in 1979. A piano student, his primary piano teacher was Hulda Griffiths. He was interested in music and drama from earliest memories his brother Ron has of him. He was always friendly, gregarious and talkative. After attending Monmouth College, he began a 37-year career at Washington University. He retired May 31, 2018.

Gary’s faith journey was important to him, and his early years included membership at First United Presbyterian Church in Granite City, IL, where he was active in youth and music activities. The minister c. 1945-1970 there was A. Ralph Lynn, hence the middle names of both Thomas and Gary. His love of music led him to become church organist for St. Luke’s United Church of Christ (St. Louis), and later Mount Tabor United Church of Christ (St. Louis), where his most recent membership and service resided. He directed the vocal choir at Mount Tabor as well.

Gary’s love of choral music included membership in the St. Louis Metropolitan Singers and the St. Louis Caroling Association. From the caroling association experience, Gary developed another choral ensemble called the Kingsbury Place Singers. His music was not only a passion but a ministry shared. Gary enjoyed serving in mission for various organizations and was active in ministry at Mount Tabor UCC and in wider church circles as well. Gary was a member of Meridian Lodge #2 in St. Louis.

Besides his parents and two brothers, Gary’s beloved partner Chris Chesserie preceded him in death. Gary himself passed into life eternal on July 16, 2018, at the age of 57. Arrangements were made through St. Louis Cremation, and his cremains will be interred following the memorial service.

Throughout his life’s journey, Gary continued to love and reach out to people. He will be missed.

Please join in a celebration of his life and faith on Saturday, August 11th at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary of Watson Terrace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 4205 Watson Rd., St. Louis, Missouri 63109, the Rev. Dr. Carole R. Barner officiating. A luncheon will follow. Memorial gifts to Mount Tabor United Church of Christ will continue to celebrate Gary’s life and faith.