Stephen "Steve" Phelps, a man whose laughter was as infectious as his love for a cold beer, the great outdoors, and his dog Jack left us on February 3rd, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on November 9th, 1954, in Elgin, Illinois, Steve's journey through life was adventurous and spirited. He passed away, surrounded by the memories of a life well-lived, in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

He was a proud machinist by trade, a vocation he approached with the same precision and care that he used to land the perfect fish. His colleagues knew him as the go-to guy for a good joke or a wise word when the going got tough.

Music pulsed through Steve's veins. He was the happiest at a concert and when he couldn't find the words, music did. He never abandoned his love of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter with his daughter, Melissa Phelps; his grandsons, Kodi Phelps, Joseph Sass, TJ Phelps, and Lukas Phelps; his granddaughter-in-law, Tess Phelps; and his sisters, Julie Semler and Cindy DeBoard. His son, Joseph Phelps, preceded him in death, as did his brother Michael Flynn and his parents, Joan Flynn and Joseph Phelps. His memory will also be cherished by his nephews, nieces, cousins, and a legion of lifelong dear friends who will miss his funny, sarcastic, and witty presence.

To say that Steve was a character would be an understatement. He was the kind of man who would offer you a cold beer before you even knew you wanted one, and his many tales of misadventure on the open road or crazy life adventures could make even the most reserved person laugh. He brought joy to every room he entered and left a trail of laughter wherever he went.

So, here's to my dad, a man who didn't just live life but truly embodied the spirit of living. May the fish be biting, the beer be cold, the plaid shirts plentiful, and the music be loud wherever you are. We will always miss the light in your eyes and the smile on your face. Until we meet again!