Jeffrey Pautz
Jeffrey Pautz
Jeffrey Pautz, 63, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the University of Missouri Hospital.
He is survived by his wife, Kelsey Quiros; his stepchildren, Ellah, Landen, and Matthew; his children, Jennifer, Carina, and Connor, of his former marriage to Charlotte Anderson; his brothers, Dr. James Pautz (Naomi Nomura) and Steven Pautz (Connie Pautz, née Myers); and his father, Dr. Dudley Pautz.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Pautz (née Herbst); uncles, Leonard Herbst, Marvin Herbst, Emmett Herbst, Raymond Pautz, Austin Smith; and aunts Edith Kurtz (née Herbst), and Evelyn Smith (née Pautz).
Jeff was born in Bonne Terre, Missouri, on July 24, 1962. He studied at the University of Missouri-Rolla and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science.
Jeff had a lifelong passion for science and learning, always eager to learn how things worked and to share his knowledge and interests with those around him. From weather and astronomy to technology and coding, the world was a puzzle for him to solve, and he delighted in absorbing as much knowledge as he could. (If you know about the history of bananas, it is likely thanks to Jeff.)
His curiosity also carried Jeff around the world, and he treasured his travels to countries including Norway, South Africa, Australia, and Peru. He loved trying new and exotic foods that he would not have been able to try at home.
Family and friends often experienced Jeff’s big-hearted nature through his willingness to help and his involvement in various community groups in St. Louis and mid-Missouri, such as the Boy Scouts of America, the Missouri Bluebird Society, the Elks, and several ham radio groups, where he shared his time, talents, and friendship.
Above all, Jeff will be remembered for his curiosity, generous spirit, and eagerness to help others throughout his life.
A memorial visitation will be held at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Monday, January 19, 2026 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m, preceded by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m officiated by Pastor Shannon Davis. Inurnment will immediately follow the memorial service at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Farmington.
