Laura E. Muench

Laura Ellen Muench, 61, passed away on March 5, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in St. Louis, Mo, she was the second child of Selba Tru and John R. Dengler.  She was named after her ancestor Laura Lafferty.

Laura graduated from Southwest High School in 1978 and attended college at Northeast Missouri State University (now Truman State) in Kirksville, Mo.

Laura and her husband, Larry Muench, own and operate John Dengler Tobacconist.  The 104-year-old shop is believed to be one of the oldest continuous family-owned tobacco shops in the United States. She was also a valued employee (family member) at Martin Electrical Sales for 35 years and served on the Electrical Board of Missouri and Illinois (EBMI).

Laura had many passions and rarely lacked an activity to keep her busy.  She was a member of the Illinois Territorial Rangers - 17th Regiment, 1812 War re-enactors. She was a fine shot with a muzzleloader and skilled at frying pan throwing as well.

She was a LOUD supporter of the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corp and was known (well actually heard), letting out a loud “woop-woop” when they marched down Main Street in St. Charles. Laura’s mom and dad were instrumental in starting the corp.

Laura was an athlete, in high school playing basketball and, on the track, team shot-put, and in softball leagues as an adult. She was a “fan” in the true sense of the word, “loudly” supporting the St. Louis Cardinals, the Hockey Blues and the Missouri State Lady Bears.

One of Laura and Larry’s favorite activities was loading their dog Fuente into the RV and heading to Montauk State Park for a bit of relaxation and trout fishing. Laura always caught the biggest fish, and that isn’t a tale - she has the pictures to back up the claims.

Fuente was Laura’s fur-baby who was the constant star of Facebook posts, family Christmas cards and the yearly Fuente calendar.  Fuente’s smiling face matched her mom’s. She was Laura’s work-from-home coworker, couch friend, quick with a wet kiss, and always willing to take Laura for a walk in Frontier Park.

Laura loved Mickey Mouse (not Minnie) and created a museum to what Larry referred to as “the rat,” that would have impressed Walt Disney.  There is even a picture of Laura and the mouse.

Laura was a devout servant of God and found love and support at Salem United Church of Christ in Alhambra, IL. Laura would drive an hour to attend service at the church she loved.  She taught Sunday school and found her voice singing in the choir. She treasured her trips to the Holy land where she was baptized in the Jordan River.  Laura also shared her love for God on numerous mission trips to Ecuador.

Laura had a smile that brought sunshine into any room, and when she entered you knew the fun was ready to begin. She made everyone feel special and loved.  More than anything, Laura loved her human and furry family, and her friends.

Laura leaves behind her beloved husband of 35 years, Larry; brother, John L. Dengler and wife Carol; sister Anne Albin and her husband Rodney; sister-in-law to Sandy Kiszczak and husband Stan; one niece, Mandie Kiszczak; three nephews Clint Albin, Bill Albin, and Josh Kiszczak and his wife Mirna; cousins and countless other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her brother-in-law Ronald Popp, his wife Mary survives.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Salem United Church of Christ Designated for Mission, Lewis & Clark Fife & Drum Corp, or Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

The family would like to invite you to watch funeral service online on Wednesday, March 10, at 11:00am. Please click here.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Baue Funeral Homes does require all family members and guests to wear a mask while visiting our facilities. Social distancing is required, and guests should stay at least 6 feet apart. Thank you for your understanding.