William “Neal” Weber, 84, of Dittmer died Jan. 31, 2024, in St. Louis. Mr. Weber began as a truck driver for his uncle Hugo Redhage. Later, alongside his brother-in-law, Hugo Kramme, he assumed leadership of the business. He was known for his skill of providing accurate directions to different locations from memory. In Carterville, he reignited his love for carpentry, a skill passed down by his father, and became a master craftsman. He worked on many homes in Southern Illinois, including those of his family and friends. He was a member of St. Martin’s United Church of Christ in Dittmer, where he was baptized and confirmed and where he raised his children. He served as church council president from 1962-70, Boy Scouts Cub Master from 1964-73, coached baseball and participated in many church activities. One of his proudest achievements was helping organize the tax-supported Fire Protection District, of which he also served on the board. He loved Cardinal baseball, fishing, hunting, camping, barbequing and making memories with family and friends. He and his wife, Jane, loved to travel. They visited many places and escaped the winters by heading south in their RV. He will be remembered for his infectious smile and quick wit. Born Feb. 16, 1939, in St. Louis, he was the son of the late Ella J. (Bruns) and William J. Weber.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years: Jane (Hampton) Weber; two children: Robin (Alan) Sronce and Bruce (Joy)Weber; four grandchildren: Robert “Mike” (Adriana) Sronce, Cara (Sean) Fitzgerald, John (Joanna Fay) Sronce and Alexander Pagel; three great-grandchildren: Quinn, Weber and Leonardo; a brother-in-law and friend: Hugo Kramme; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by two sisters: Carol “Jeannie” Kramme and Marilynn Viehland.
Visitation is scheduled from 9 a.m. until a memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at St. Martin’s United Church of Christ, 7890 Dittmer Ridge Road, in Dittmer. Burial to follow. Memorials may be made to Shannondale Camp, 41277 Hwy. 19, Salem, 65560. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary in Cedar Hill.