Billhartz, Kerry

Kerry G. Billhartz, 47, of New Baden, IL, died Thursday, June 12, 2014 at his home in New Baden. He was born April 12, 1967 in Belleville, IL son of Maurice and Roberta (Peek) Billhartz. Kerry is survived by his father, Maurice Billhartz of New Baden; his mother, Roberta Billhartz of Albers; a daughter, Sierra Billhartz of Bartelso; a son, Dylan Billhartz of Bartelso; his girlfriend, Trisha Feldman of Troy; a sister, Krista (Dale) Gruenewald of Millstadt; two brothers, Ken (Cristie) Billhartz of New Baden, and Kurt (Heather) Billhartz of Springfield; his grandmother, Leona Peek of Beaver Prairie; Godparents, Ruth and Louie Billhartz of Belleville; nieces and nephews, Julia Billhartz, who was also his Goddaughter, Branden Billhartz, Kyle Billhartz, Erica Gruenewald, Darren Gruenewald, and Caleb Gruenewald, who was also his Godson; and he is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, August Peek, and Edward and Clara Billhartz. Mr. Billhartz was the Vice President and Director of Finance at Barry-Wehmiller in Clayton, MO. He was a Mater Dei High School graduate, class of 1985. He then studied two years at Kaskaskia College and 2 years at SIUE earning his Bachelor’s degree in accounting and then received his CPA certification. He was a member of the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants), and St. George Parish in New Baden, IL. Kerry enjoyed boating, camping, and skiing, the St. Louis Blues and St. Louis Cardinals, and he formerly played for the Clinton County Pool League. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2014 at St. George Catholic Church in New Baden with Rev. Eugene Neff officiating. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in New Baden. Friends may call from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2014 and from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2014 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Mater Dei High School, Hospice of Southern Illinois or to the Donor’s Choice and will be received at the funeral home.