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1963
Stephen
2026
Stephen John Wilke
Jan 27, 1963 — Oct 5, 2026
Rockford
Stephen J. Wilke, 63, of Rockford, Illinois, passed peacefully surrounded by family on October 5, 2026.
Steve was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, brother, and Pa.
The son of Linda J. Wilke and the late Ronald C. Wilke and brother of Kimberly (John) Henson.
Steve’s family was the most important part of his life. He deeply loved his wife, Kimberly Singletary, and together they built a life filled with football, antiquing, music, laughter, and adventure.
Steve was the proud father of Lindsey (Cody) West, Allison Wilke, and Tyler Wilke, and stepfather to Amanda (Drew) McNett and Andrea (Joey) Colombi. He was also the best Pa to his grandchildren, Levi, Charlie, Ava, Aurora, Azalea, Aria, Lucian, Jett, and Rowan.
Steve and Kim's dog, Artemus, held a special place in his heart and was truly one of his best companions. Anyone who knew Steve knew how much Artemus meant to him. We like to think that Steve is now reunited with Guinevere and Homer, his beloved dogs who had already crossed the rainbow bridge, and that the three of them are together again.
Many knew Steve as the Pizza Man from Giuseppe’s, but he was so much more. A true jack of all trades, he was an exceptionally talented carpenter who could build, repair, or improve nearly anything. Creative, resourceful, and determined, he always found a way to bring an idea to life.
Music was another constant in his life. He had impeccable taste and almost always had something playing. He also loved photography, exploring new places, and taking on new adventures. His sense of humor, unmistakable smile, and infectious laugh will be remembered by everyone who knew him.
Steve may not have been here for a long time, but he was always here for us. He leaves behind countless stories, projects he built, photographs he took, music he loved, and, most importantly, a family who will carry his memory forward.
Rest easy, Steve
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Steve will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Neighbors Bar & Grill
7745 Forest Hills Road
Loves Park, IL 61111
Family and friends are welcome to come together to share memories, stories, and celebrate Steve's life.
Steve was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, brother, and Pa.
The son of Linda J. Wilke and the late Ronald C. Wilke and brother of Kimberly (John) Henson.
Steve’s family was the most important part of his life. He deeply loved his wife, Kimberly Singletary, and together they built a life filled with football, antiquing, music, laughter, and adventure.
Steve was the proud father of Lindsey (Cody) West, Allison Wilke, and Tyler Wilke, and stepfather to Amanda (Drew) McNett and Andrea (Joey) Colombi. He was also the best Pa to his grandchildren, Levi, Charlie, Ava, Aurora, Azalea, Aria, Lucian, Jett, and Rowan.
Steve and Kim's dog, Artemus, held a special place in his heart and was truly one of his best companions. Anyone who knew Steve knew how much Artemus meant to him. We like to think that Steve is now reunited with Guinevere and Homer, his beloved dogs who had already crossed the rainbow bridge, and that the three of them are together again.
Many knew Steve as the Pizza Man from Giuseppe’s, but he was so much more. A true jack of all trades, he was an exceptionally talented carpenter who could build, repair, or improve nearly anything. Creative, resourceful, and determined, he always found a way to bring an idea to life.
Music was another constant in his life. He had impeccable taste and almost always had something playing. He also loved photography, exploring new places, and taking on new adventures. His sense of humor, unmistakable smile, and infectious laugh will be remembered by everyone who knew him.
Steve may not have been here for a long time, but he was always here for us. He leaves behind countless stories, projects he built, photographs he took, music he loved, and, most importantly, a family who will carry his memory forward.
Rest easy, Steve
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Steve will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Neighbors Bar & Grill
7745 Forest Hills Road
Loves Park, IL 61111
Family and friends are welcome to come together to share memories, stories, and celebrate Steve's life.
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.
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