Preston Dewey Ketchum (85), passed away on February 3, 2025. He was born to Hadie Noll and Dewey William Ketchum on May 21, 1939 in Floresville, Texas. He was a good friend to many and will be missed by friends and family alike.
Preston graduated from Brackenridge High School in 1958. He played football, ran track, and played American Legion baseball. He maintained his friendships with many of his old friends from his school days his entire life. He and others who graduated from Brackenridge were members of a luncheon group who met once a month to socialize and talk of good memories. He was also a member of the Brackenridge Exe’s Association, where he was President for many years. Preston’s outgoing personality drew people to him and he made friends wherever he was, at home or traveling.
Preston started working for Missouri Pacific Railroad when he graduated high school and quickly became a job steward for the Teamsters Union who represented the railroad workers. He moved up the ladder of the Teamsters Union and became President of Teamsters Local 657. In addition to his work with the Union, he was active in local politics and was Campaign Manager for Ron Bird, who was running for State Representative. They won and became lifelong friends in the process.
Preston was predeceased by his parents; and by his son, Stephen Joseph Ketchum. He is survived by his wife of twenty five years, June Pritchard; his son, Richard Ketchum (Darlene); his beloved Granddaughter, Stephanie Kraemer (Tyler); his great grandson, Samuel Colt Kraemer; his step daughters, Pamela Remeika (Michael) and Shannon Lee; his grandson, Jonathan Frisby (Hannah); and grandchildren, Travis (Alli), and Morgan Yarbrough (Scott).
He enjoyed being the great grandfather to seven other great grandchildren. He is also survived by beloved cousins and many friends.
Preston had a gift for making and keeping friends and many of the friends from his young years were still his friends until the end of his life. He was blessed with a joyful spirit and was a favorite during his time at the nursing home at Incarnate Word. His family would like to thank the nurses and employees of DeMatel House at Incarnate Word for the good care and many kindnesses they showed to him.
May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
According to his stated request, there will be no formal funeral service.
