Trey River Johnson, 21, Owensville, passed away Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, in Owensville.
He was born on March 7, 2005, to Michelle (Schafer) Fricke in St. Louis.
Some people leave footprints on our hearts, and some leave an entire part of themselves there. Trey was that kind of person. Trey’s smile was unforgettable, especially those dimples that appeared every time he laughed. And Trey laughed often. He had a way of bringing joy wherever he went, making people laugh, making people feel welcome and turning ordinary moments into memories. He was kind, funny, thoughtful and full of life. He was the life of the party—the person people wanted around, the person who could make a good time even better simply by being there.
Trey loved his family deeply, and his mom was his rock. She was the person he could always turn to, no matter what he needed or what life brought his way. He knew that he could call her, and she would always be there. Their bond was incredibly special—a love and connection that went far beyond words and will remain with her forever. Trey’s bond with his brother, Dakota, was equally special, built through a lifetime of memories, laughter and the unbreakable connection only brothers share.
He also found a love that meant everything to him in Avery. She was the love of his life, his best friend and the person with whom he was building his future. They were making plans, dreaming together and creating a life they were so excited to share. The love they had for one another was evident to everyone who knew them, and the memories they made together will be treasured forever.
Trey loved the outdoors and all the things that made him feel most alive. He loved hunting and fishing, working out, listening to music, and being out on his boat with his friends. Some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by the people he loved, laughing, making memories and simply enjoying life.
Those who knew Trey will remember so much about him—they will remember his thoughtfulness, his kindness and the way he made people feel. His love for his family and his friends, and the way his presence could light up a room. They will remember the countless little moments that may have seemed ordinary at the time but have now become priceless memories.
Trey’s life was far too short, but the love he gave was anything but small. He touched the lives of so many people and left a piece of himself in everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
He leaves behind a family who adored him, the love of his life, friends who were blessed to share so many memories with him, and a lifetime of love that will never disappear. There are no words that can truly express how deeply Trey will be missed. But his laughter will live on in the stories his friends tell. His smile will live on in the memories of those who loved him. His love will live on in his family. And the life he shared with Avery will forever be a beautiful part of their story. Trey may no longer be here to make us laugh, but the love, joy and memories he gave us will remain.
He was loved deeply. He lived fully. And he will never, ever be forgotten.
He is survived by mother, Michelle Fricke and husband Ron of Owensville; father, Jeff Tallent and wife Leaetta of Morrison; brothers, Dakota Snyder of Owensville and Ayden Tallent of St. Louis; sister, Laurynn Tallent of Springfield; along with eight extended brothers and sisters; grandparents, Linda Roos of Sullivan and Donna Tallent of Bland; fiancè, Avery Bastunas of Owensville; her parents, Ryan and Dana Hampton of Owensville; sister, Reece Hampton of Owensville; grandparents, Terry and Brenda Sellman of Owensville; great-grandmother, Rose Adams of Owensville; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life will held on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Red Oak Valley in Owensville, with Pastor Brad Perkins officiating.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gottenstroeter Funeral Home of Owensville.
