James L. Probst

James L. Probst, 80, passed away at his home on Saturday evening, January 17, 2026. James was born in Belleville, IL on May 10, 1945, to Lavern and Zola (Ronnenberg) Probst and his parents precede him in death. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Probst and his sister, Corene Slimet.

James grew up in Millstadt, IL and attended Millstadt Grade School. He then attended Belleville West High School and later Belleville Area College. He received a draft notice during the Vietnam Era and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He proudly served his country from August 1967-May 1971 and specialized in Radio Relay Equipment during his term of service.

James began his long life of farming at the young age of 4. He helped out as a waterboy during harvest time. His chores around the farm consisted of caring for the chickens, milking the cows and doing his school work. His days often started at 4am and lasted until 9pm, this strong work ethic continued throughout grade school, high school and into junior college. During his time at junior college, he worked in the summer as an apprentice carpenter. Because of these structured activities and his achievement in Calculus I, his grades caught the attention of the draft board, and he was subsequently called up for the draft. James did not hesitate to enlist in the Air Force.

Upon his return to civilian life, James worked on the shipyard in St. Louis, followed by truck mechanic jobs until 2011. After that, he dedicated his full-time work to farming. He married Karen (Waitukaitis) Probst on January 1, 1977, and they started their family.

James had many hobbies including farming, fishing, hunting and collecting anything and everything. He was a loving and devoted father and grandfather and during his later years was a full-time caregiver for his daughter, Kimberly who is disabled from severe epilepsy. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: James (Jackie) Probst, Scott Probst, Kimberly Probst and Daniel Probst; his brother, Mark (Patricia) Probst; his grandchildren: Rianna (Alex) Wittenauer, Ryan (Courtney) Probst, Caleb (Rachael) Probst, Joshua Probst, Christopher Probst and January Probst; his great-grandson, Aspen Probst and his former spouse, Karen Probst in addition to extended family and many beloved friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday January 31, 2026, from 12:00pm-2:30pm at Hoffen Funeral Home, 220 W. Washington St., Millstadt, IL. Funeral services will follow at the funeral home with Rev. Larry Ridenour, presiding. James will be laid to rest with full military honors on Friday February 6, 2026, at 1:30pm at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO with Rev. Joan H. Mier, presiding. Those attending the graveside services are asked to meet at the funeral home, the procession will depart at 1:00pm sharp.

Memorial contributions in memory of James L. Probst may be directed to the Epilepsy Foundation online at www.epilepsy.com and envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.