Fred Anthony Govero, 98, Festus

Fred Anthony Govero, 98, of Festus died Dec. 20, 2025, at his home. Mr. Govero retired in 1989 from Pittsburgh Plate Glass in Crystal City as a foreman and production control supervisor. He continued to work independently as a carpenter and cabinet maker. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a charter member of the Our Lady Church in Festus. Born July 10, 1927, in Festus, he was the son of the late Gertrude Mary (Watkins) and Cletus Joseph Govero. He was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years: Wilma Jean (Cox) Govero.

He is survived by eight children: Terry Govero of Imperial, Debbie Pope of Bonne Terre, Kevin (Debbe) Govero of Cape Girardeau, Randy (Cecilia) Govero of Festus, Keith (Debi) Govero of Ste. Genevieve, Barry (Patty) Govero of Bonne Terre, Angie (Jim) Baldwin of Festus, and Tim (Patti) Govero of Bonne Terre; 37 grandchildren; 76 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter: Darla Renee Govero; two sisters: Bernice (the late Bud) Spiedel and Adeline (the late Everett) Haefner; a brother: Paul Govero; a son-in-law: Paul Pope; and a grandson-in-law: Andy Gammon.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of funeral mass at noon Saturday, Dec. 27, at Our Lady Church, 1550 St Marys Lane, in Festus, officiated by Fr. Zachary Provis. Burial with full military honors will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Crystal City. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home in Festus.