Stephen Douglas Wallace

Stephen Douglas “Steve” Wallace was born January 5, 1952, in Rockford, Illinois, to Lucille and Herbert Wallace. He grew up alongside his older brother, Chuck, and younger brother, Denny, and graduated from Guilford High School. He later married Sandra and became the proud father of two children, Aaron Wallace and Becky Blake.

Steve lost his father, Herbert, at a young age, and his uncle, Kenny Catron, became an important influence in his life. Uncle Kenny took Steve under his wing and taught him to hunt and fish—two passions that stayed with him for the rest of his life. Steve spoke often and fondly of Kenny and the impact he had on him.

Steve’s early factory job led to a turning point when he was noticed for his work ethic and given an opportunity to move into sales. That chance changed the course of his career and began a long path in sales, including many successful years at Monarch Hydraulics.

Steve valued the people who came into his life, and few friendships meant more to him than the one he shared with Randy Reese. What began as a friendship quickly became something much more—Randy became another brother to Steve. Through the good times and the difficult ones, theirs was a friendship that lasted, with Randy standing by Steve’s side until the very end.

Those relationships and many others were at the heart of who Steve was. He loved hunting and fishing, golfing, playing cards, and simply being with family and friends. For Steve, many of his favorite things in life were really about the people he got to share them with—a day outdoors, a competitive card game, plenty of laughter, and time together.

Steve’s life changed dramatically after suffering a devastating heart attack and stroke. While many might have given up, Steve didn’t. He worked incredibly hard to regain what he could and find his way forward. That determination reflected who Steve was throughout his life—someone who always tried to see the upside, even when circumstances were difficult.

After a second stroke, life required another adjustment, and Steve eventually made his home at Morning Star. His family is deeply grateful to the people there who cared for him, laughed with him, and created a true home for him during his final years.

Steve will be remembered for his resilience, his love of family and friends, and the countless memories created around card tables, golf courses, fishing spots, and family gatherings. His life was a reminder that strength sometimes means simply getting back up, accepting what has changed, and continuing to find reasons to enjoy the life in front of you.

Steve did just that.

Steve is survived by his children, Aaron Wallace and Becky Blake; his brothers, Chuck and Denny; and his beloved grandchildren, Adelynn, Asher, Lincoln, and Lennox. He also leaves behind extended family and many dear friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the family and friendships he treasured.

A Celebration of Life honoring Steve will be held on August 22nd at 11:30 AM at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club. A service will precede the Celebration of Life at 10:00 AM at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, with visitation from 9:30 am until the time of service. Family and friends are welcome to gather together to share memories, stories, and celebrate a life that meant so much to so many.

Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com