Jay Wohlert, 63, of Festus died Sept. 5, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. Mr. Wohlert had several careers throughout his life. He worked as a head chef at the Arena (Checkerdome) Club where he catered for Michael Jackson and David Lee Roth. He was also head chef for restaurants such as Spiros, Bristol's and Lucius Boomers as well as the Head Start program for preschoolers in Jefferson County. He loved the arts, having been a DJ, recorded audiobooks and authored a book of poetry. A self-taught musician, he played many instruments, including the guitar and the drums, and recorded music in a music room he built in his house. He was a fan of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and worked as a salesman and financial manager for local dealerships. Alongside his wife, Mr. Wohlert also worked at a tiger sanctuary. He became an expert in antique fishing equipment, specializing in buying and selling collectible antique lures, and he designed furniture and decor. Lastly, he worked at Lowes in equipment rental. In addition to playing music, fishing and appreciating nature, he enjoyed playing sports, staying healthy (having been sober since he was 30), photographing clouds, telling stories, being on the water, watching birds and insects and spending time with his friends and family, particularly on vacations to Emerald Isle, N.C. He especially loved spending time with his wife and, when he was diagnosed with cancer, she became his advocate and caretaker. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, intelligence, sharp wit and kindness. He was the son of Carrie and Roger Wohlert of Wildwood.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife of his 28 years: Georgia Wohlert of Festus; a child: Justin Wohlert of St. Louis; two siblings: Heather (Mark Heckenburg) Meert of Imperial and Cal (Paige) Wohlert of Westminster, Colo.; a grandchild: Jordyn Wohlert of Eureka; nieces and nephews: Griffin Meert of New York City, N.Y., Hannah Forehand of High Ridge, Caroline Meert of Washington, Olivia Gregorek of Golden, Colo., Iris Wohlert of Westminster, Colo., and Ethan Wohlert of Boise, Idaho; his mother-in-law: Helen Serpanos of Festus; and many other family members and friends.
A celebration of life is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 1, at Mr. Wohlert’s home. Memorials may be made to the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation at maal.org.