Shorty Behrman, a long-time resident and tavern owner in Albers, died Wednesday, February 10th, 2016 at Aviston Countryside Manor at the age of 90.
Shorty enlisted in the US Navy and served in the Pacific during WWII. He married Dorothy Billhartz in 1949.
Shorty’s parents, Anton and Catherine Behrman, opened Behrman’s Tavern in 1934. Shorty took over in 1954 and operated the business for more than 33 years. Today, the legacy of Shorty’s Tavern continues as the oldest family run tavern in Illinois.
With his devoted wife of 66 years, Shorty and Dorothy raised 8 children. Their children are Gary Behrman of St. Louis, Barb (Tom) Brandmeyer of Albers, Glen “Shorty” (Theresa) Behrman of Albers, Clyde “Balls” (Peggy) Behrman of Albers, Cindy (Mike) Korte of Germantown, Brenda Isert of Weldon Springs, MO, Kevin (Vicky) Behrman of St. Louis, and Kris (Rick) Crane of Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Shorty and Dorothy’s legacy continues through their 16 grandchildren and 9 great – grandchildren. Shorty’s sister, Eleanor Huegen resides in Albers.
Preceding him in death are his parents, Anton and Catherine; his sister and brother-in-law, Bernadine & Bernard Frankovich; his brother-in-law, Del Huegen; grandson Justin Brandmeyer; and great grandson Grayson Timmerman.
Shorty was recently honored as a 70 year member of the American Legion Post in Albers. He was also a member of the Albers Commercial Club, past President and member of the Clinton County Tavern Owners Association, a member of St. Bernard Parish, and St. Bernard Men’s Sodality.
Visitation will be held at Nordike Funeral Home in Albers on Sunday, February 14, 2016 from 4 until 8:00 p.m. and on Monday, February 15th from 9 until 10:30 a.m.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Albers on Monday, February 15, 2016 at 11:00 a.m., full military honors will follow mass at St. Bernard Catholic Church. A reception will be held at the Albers American Legion following the services.
Memorials may be made in Shorty’s honor to St. Bernard Catholic Church or Mater Dei Catholic High School and will be received at Nordike Funeral Home.