Robert Brennecke

Robert C. Brennecke, age 75, born on January 19, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri, died on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, in Freeburg, Illinois.

Robert was a modern renaissance man. Ever the serial entrepreneur, he owned a fireplace and patio store in Belleville, Illinois, in the mid-1970s. He was a pioneer in the video cassette distribution and rental industry in the early-1980s, with Belleville-based businesses reaching throughout the Midwest.

In the 1990s, Robert purchased an Apple Macintosh, became a self-taught graphic designer, and created websites, marketing materials, and advertisements. He took particular joy in helping others start businesses of their own. In the late 1990s, Robert joined the staff at Windoor, Inc., where he worked until his retirement while maintaining his entrepreneurial ways as a graphics designer.

After retirement, Robert found enjoyment in buying and selling surplus items. He was an accomplished carpenter, architectural designer, and fisherman.

Robert was brilliant, creative, resourceful, and quick-witted. He loved his family unconditionally and adored his home and dogs. Robert was a kind and giving man, and a great friend to everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert C. and Anna M. (nee McDowell) Brennecke Sr., and a sister Janice Gamewell.

Robert is survived by his wife of 40 years, Patricia A. (nee Hinkle) Brennecke; daughter Kimberly (Eric) Norlin; son, Robert (Lauren) Brennecke; Sister, Tricia Brennecke (Kenneth Albrecht). Grandsons Aaron Podniestrzanski and baby Beau Brennecke (expected in May); great-grandsons Greyson and Caspain Podniestrzanski; Nieces Amanda (John) Guinn, Kristina Hinkle and Alexandria (Eric) Ballard; nephew Matthew (Kate) Gamewell; Great Nieces, Mallory Gamewell and Bailey McMenamin (Connell). Great Nephews, Andrew Gamewell, Gavin, and Griffin Guinn.

Per Roberts wishes he will be cremated, and a private interment will be held at Lakeview Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL.

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