​New Horizons Presbyterian Church


    Obituaries​​

    "The Lord is my light and my salvation... the Lord is the strength of my life." - Psalm 27:1


    IN LOVING MEMORY …

    Peggy E. Lohnes 
    December 26, 1945—August 7, 2025

    Beloved Wife of the late Bill Lohnes; Dear mother and mother-in-law of Art (Jennifer) Lohnes, Drew (Karen) Lohnes, Josh (Sally) Lohnes; dear grandmother of Kaylee, Julia, Samantha and Lexi; dear aunt of Diana Crabtree and Melissa Rein: a beloved friend to all that she met.  Peggy spent most of her days with her granddaughters, whether cheering at their sporting events, playing board games, building LEGOs, or just hanging out, she was always showering them with her unconditional love. She was also extraordinarily generous with her love, kindness, and time, leaving an indelible impression on the many friends she encountered. Peggy was an active member of PEO Sisterhood and an Elder and Treasurer at New Horizons Presbyterian Church. She shared her laughter and inspiration with her many social groups. She was also a dedicated employee for H&R Block for over 40 years.

    Peggy was a lover of Squishies, Lighthouses and God.  She kept squishies in her car; her home was filled with lighthouses and her heart was full of faith and love.  She was one of the kindest and most generous people.  Her love of God and her family shown through her life everyday.  She was a friend to all.  Peggy was instrumental in getting a space at New Horizons for the St. Louis Youth Sports Outreach program.  She was always so supportive of what they were doing for kids.  Peggy supported all kids whether it be her grandkids or the kids she adopted at church.  They all loved her.  She always was interested in what was going on in their lives.  She always had a hug for them and a kind word of support and love.  Peggy had a beautiful voice and sang in the choir for years and was an important member of the Bell Choir.  Peggy was a remarkable woman and she will be greatly missed.  We are happy that you are back with Bill and with your Lord.  We love you Peggy and miss you! 


    Katherine Louise Groff

    March 11, 1924—August 28, 2025

    Katherine Louise Groff (nee Berkebile) of Bridgeton, Missouri, and former longtime resident of Woodson Terrace, Missouri, was called to her heavenly home on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the age of 101 years. She was born on March 11, 1924, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, one of five children of Orie C. and Gertrude C. (nee Stull) Berkebile. Katherine exemplified a spirit of resilience, compassion, and love throughout her long and remarkable life.  Katherine graduated as a registered nurse in 1948 from Shadyside Hospital School of Nursing in Pittsburgh, where her passion for caring for others flourished. Her commitment to helping others shaped her early days as a registered nurse and led, as happens, to her meeting the man who would become her husband, John W. Groff, a young Navy officer who had been a patient in the hospital she was working at in Atlantic City, New Jersey. They were married on March 17, 1951, in Yuma, Arizona, while John was stationed in San Diego, California. After he returned from overseas duty they lived in Pensacola, Florida, then moved in 1954 to St. Louis, Missouri, where John had taken a job with McDonnell Aircraft Corp. (now Boeing).  While devoting herself to raising their children - Donald, Robert, Mary Sue, David, and John - Katherine remained a pillar of faith in her community. A faithful, active member of Overland Presbyterian Church (now New Horizons), she dedicated many years to teaching Sunday School, instilling values of love and service in the lives of others. She was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan and her zest for life was evident as she seized opportunities for travel and adventure, including a captivating month as a cook on a towboat navigating the Mississippi River.

    In her last two decades, Katherine lived in an independent living apartment at Holy Angels II in Bridgeton, where she became an active member of John Calvin Presbyterian Church, continuing her mission of teaching Sunday School and serving as a source of deep knowledge about the Bible. She also swam three times a week at the Bridgeton Recreation Center, fostering community, nurturing friendships and extending a lifetime devotion to staying active. Katherine’s enthusiasm for life remained unwavering, and her wit shone brightly until her final days.  She was preceded in death by several family members including her parents; husband of 29 years, John W. Groff Sr.; a son, John W. Groff Jr.; and three brothers, Maurice, Harold and Donald Berkebile.  She is survived by four children, Donald (Kriste Lindenmeyer) Groff, Robert Groff, Mary Sue Groff, and David (Sherry) Groff; daughter-in-law of the heart Mary Worobe Groff; four grandchildren, Amanda (Jonanthan) Hill, Matthew (Danielle West) Groff, Jack (Renea) Groff, and Jill (Dan) Worman; five great-grandchildren, Walter Hill, Wade Hill, Orie West Groff, Jonathan (Nickie) Groff, and Jessica (Mike) Martin; two great-great-grandchildren, Amelia and Emma Duncan; and her beloved sister, Theodosia Brant. She was also a dear aunt, cousin and friend to many.  Her legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her.

     


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