U.S. Veteran. Robert Mark Jekel, 57, of St. Louis, died March 11. Mr. Jekel was born Feb. 22, 1961 in St. Louis to Robert and Patricia (Arzon) Jekel. He is survived by his beloved daughters: Anne and Noelle Jekel and Jennifer Jekel-Farrell; three grandchildren: Nicolas, Charles and Gabriella; a sister, Jody Frederick; and a son-in-law, Daniel Farrell. He was a father-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to many, with a large extended family in St. Louis and Waterloo, Ill. He was married to Annette Seyer for 25 years. They separated but remained devoted parents and grandparents. Born and raised in St. Louis, Mr. Jekel graduated from Oakville High School in 1979. He was a proud retiree of the U.S. Navy, where he served his country as a submariner. He served in the White House Communication Service for two presidents. He later attended school at a local college as a veteran and worked in communication and security fields. He was an avid Harley rider, bow hunter and karaoke singer. A celebration of life event was held March 15 at Occasions Events in St. Louis, with a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Dolphin Scholarship, dolphinscholarship.org. This scholarship provides educational opportunities for submariners and their families.