Visitation set for metro-east hunter known as ‘an avid outdoorsman’

Luke Kitterman, the hunter who drowned after he fell through ice trying to rescue his dog on a pond near New Baden, is being remembered for his love of the outdoors.

Kitterman, 23, of New Memphis, was belly crawling on an icy pond on Monday when he fell into the water, authorities said. His body was found Tuesday afternoon.

“Luke was an avid outdoorsman,” according to his obituary posted by Campagna Funeral Home in Okawville on Thursday. “He would have rather been outside than anywhere else. He was an experienced hunter and fisherman, as well as a conservationist and member of Ducks Unlimited.

“He took great care to ensure that the forests, rivers and lakes would be protected for future hunters and fishermen to enjoy,” the obituary states. “Luke also loved boating and hanging out and drinking beer with family and friends. Even though his life was cut short, Luke lived life to the fullest and will be missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.”

Kitterman graduated from Wesclin High School in Trenton and was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 520 in Granite City.

A visitation will be 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6 in the Parish Center of St. Barbara’s Catholic Church at 305 N. Front St. in Okawville. The body will be cremated.

Kitterman was with about five friends waterfowl hunting on Monday afternoon when he attempted to rescue his dog, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which oversees the conservation police agents assigned to investigate this case.

His friends used a canoe in an effort to reach Kitterman, the agency said, and were able to rescue the dog.

Dive teams searched for Kitterman until late Monday night and resumed the search Tuesday. Sonar equipment also was used during the search.

The pond is southwest of New Baden near Interstate 64 in St. Clair County. It is off Renth Road near the intersection of Clinton County Line Road.