Charles E. Ketchum

Charles "Sonny" E. Ketchum, age 76, of St. Louis, passed away on August 12, 2025. Loving husband of Barbara Ketchum; beloved son of the late Charles I. and Marie Ketchum; dear father of Christine (Steven) Isaak Connolly and step father of Michele (Bill) Pipes, William (Lori) Almo, Angela (the late Jeff) Bramer, and Louis (Janelle) Vondera; dearest grandpa of Cooper Isaak, Kathleen Connolly, Ryan Connolly, Katie (Ricky) Dungey, Randy Davis, Sarah (Alex) Lewis, Brittney (Eric) Stuart, Elizabeth (Mike) Suntinger, William Almo II, Abigail Bramer, Mason Vondera, and Emma Vondera; great grandpa of RJ, Austin, Ethan, Brayden, Adalynn, Reagan, Nicholas, Christopher, Emma, Alexzander, Carter, Addison, Natalie, and Langston. Sonny was preceded in death by his infant twin brother, whom he missed dearly. He was a cherished nephew, cousin, and a loyal friend to many. Sonny proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and earned several commendations for his bravery. For his dedication to our country, full military honors will be rendered at Jefferson Barracks when he join his comrades at his final resting place. A true car guy to his core, Sonny was a proud member of the Fabulous 50s Car Club and the Model A Car Club. His garage was a time capsule of automotive greatness, home to a stunning trio of Chevy Bel Air convertibles — 1955, 1956, and 1957 — a 1929 Model A, and a 1967 Dodge Charger. But while he loved to show them off at car shows, there was one rule that never changed: nobody drives the cars but Sonny. Weekends were for wrenching and reminiscing — working on cars, swapping stories, and hanging out with his garage buddies. He and his beloved wife were a team in every way, traveling across the country to car shows and swap meets, soaking up good barbecue and great memories along the way. Sonny was also a music lover who collected vinyl records and DJ’d for a time, spinning tunes that matched the rhythm of the road. His collection of die-cast cars was rivaled only by the collection of trophies he earned at shows — each one a reflection of the care, pride, and polish he poured into every ride. He adored his dogs — Oreo, Pooh Bear, and Penny — and treated them like family. His sense of humor was legendary, especially if you liked your jokes a little on the dirty side. Always quick-witted and never at a loss for words, Sonny could give you directions from anywhere to anywhere without ever needing a map. Nostalgic at heart, he loved talking about the history of St. Louis and the neighborhood where he grew up, sharing stories that made you feel like you were right there with him. Sonny will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and he leaves behind a life full of chrome, music, laughter, and love.

Charles E. Ketchum

December 17, 1948 - August 12, 2025