Joseph Henry Scharenborg

Joseph Henry “Bean” Scharenborg, age 84, of Leopold, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025. He was born on March 26, 1941, to the late Henry and Josie (Brummer) Scharenborg and was a proud graduate of Leopold High School.

Joe spent most of his life working the land as a farmer and in construction, both of which reflected his strong work ethic and dedication. A true outdoorsman, he had a deep love for nature and could often be found hunting squirrel, deer, rabbit, and turkey, or frog gigging in the evenings. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes, and his skills in playing horseshoes were well-known—he was a champion in more ways than one.

He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the 10-Point Club. One of his favorite songs, King of the Road by Roger Miller, always seemed to bring a smile to his to his face—“trailers for sale or rent…”

Joe married Emily Elfrink, and together they welcomed two children, Danny and LeAnn. On June 21, 1991, he married Pansy Alexander in Sikeston, Missouri, and joyfully embraced three bonus children, Jerry, Laurie, and Cindy. Joe was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a strong, steady presence in the lives of those who knew him.

His legacy is one of kindness, hard work, and deep love for his family and the simple joys of life.

He is survived by his children: Danny (Cindy) Scharenborg of Maurepas, LA, Jerry Inman of Sikeston, MO, LeAnn McGowan of San Diego, CA, Laurie (Scott) Wheeler of Essex, MO, Cindy Drury of Naples, FL; sister: Marcy Sullivan of Cape Girardeau, MO; sister-in-law: Violet Dreshel of Cape Girardeau, MO; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Pansy Scharenborg; siblings: Margaret Kielhofner, and Sister Timothy (Mary) Scharenborg.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, at the Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill.  Memorial Service and burial will follow at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri, on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 2:00 pm, with full military honors. A meal will follow the burial at the K of C hall in Leopold, Missouri at 5:00 pm.