Brent Daniel "Brently" "Whitey Laux

BRENT “WHITEY” LAUX

KAMPSVILLE - Brent Daniel Laux—known to many as Brently, and to most as Whitey—age 80, of Kampsville, Illinois (born and raised in Pearl, Illinois), passed away on February 8, 2026, surrounded by his boys.

Whitey was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War.

He spent his entire working life as a Union Operating Engineer with Local 965. He was highly respected for his skill, took immense pride in his craft, and was known as someone who truly knew his trade.

After getting back from Vietnam he married Margaret Webster who he had 4 sons with.
Above all else, Whitey’s greatest love was his four boys: Todd, Ty (Sammie), Sam (Melanie), and Ross (Dawn). Todd was his adversary, Ty was his special one, Sam was his buddy, and Ross was his baby. His favorite moments were spent on the river with them or sitting around doing what he loved best—talking a little crap and sharing laughs. He was also a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Quincy, Isiah, Cam, Penn, Addie, Brooklyn, Keelin, and Keck, all of whom he loved dearly.

Whitey loved life and knew how to have fun. He was known by all, and everyone has a “Whitey story.” He carried a tough exterior, but those who truly knew him understood he had a heart of gold. He was famously said to have a black belt in verbal judo, and his sharp wit and unforgettable one-liners will live on long after him. He will be deeply missed by many.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Imogene Laux. He is survived by his older brother, Ron (Donna) Laux of Pearl, Illinois.

In true Whitey fashion, there will be no funeral, no visitation, and no burial—but there will be a party. A celebration. A lot of laughs. A lot of stories. And plenty of “Whitey-isms.”

All are welcome to join in celebrating his life on Saturday, February 14th, at 1:00 p.m. at The Michael Tavern.

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