John Rosenthal

Captain John L. Rosenthal, Retired, St. Louis County Police Department passed away on August 30, 2024 at the age of 80. 

John was born in St. Louis on November 25, 1943, son of George Daniel Rosenthal and Elma McLaughlin Rosenthal. John was the great-grandson of P.C. Murphy, founder and owner of Murphy Trunk Company of St. Louis, MO, the largest trunk company west of the Mississippi. He was the grandson of the late George D. Rosenthal, friend and employee of Thomas Edison at the General Electric Company and supplier of the lighting and pumps for the 1904 St. Louis Worlds Fair

Throughout his police career, John faithfully served the citizens of St. Louis County with excellence, integrity and compassion. His steadfast commitment to protect and serve those in need will live on for generations through the deeds of the officers he inspired.

He was preceded in death by his loving and dedicated wife Anita Rosenthal (nee Katz), his parents, George and Elma and siblings George D. Rosenthal III, and Sister Helen Rosenthal, RSCJ.

He is survived by his Sister, Betty Bova Troilo (Phil), and her children Blase and Jennifer. 

He will also be mourned by: Anita’s family, Sisters, Judith F. Katz, and Ilene (Terry) Bolin; her niece, Alexis (Nick) Schnelting; and her nephew, Clayton C. Bolin. The officers and staff who were nurtured and inspired by his insightful leadership. Loving life-long friends Karen “Chickie” Gust and Arlene Taylor. The incredible staff who became his surrogate family at The Post, Creve Couer. 

John and Anita loved to travel and cruises were their primary choice for vacations. John always enjoyed excellent service and easily became a staff favorite as he treated everyone with both respect and generosity. To him, enjoying life meant ensuring those around him, no matter their position or status, were always lifted up as well. 

Blessed are John and Anita being reunited to embark on their next adventure together. 

John requested a private family service and asked that any donations in his name be made to the Society of the Sacred Heart where his sister served for more than 70 years (RSCJ.org)