Steven Willis Daly, 63, of Galesburg, peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria.
Steve was born June 29, 1958 in Omaha, NE, the son of Gray O. and Margaret A. (Swanson) Daly. He graduated from Mercer University in Macon, GA. Steven owned and operated Midwest Appraisal in Galesburg since 1987. He was appointed Township Assessor in 2016 and was elected to the position in 2017.
Steve is survived by his partner of 27 years, Stephanie Teel of Galesburg; one brother, Chris (Kathleen) Daly of Crystal Lake, IL; one nephew, Christopher (Allison) Daly of Crystal Lake, IL; one great nephew, Benedict Hart Daly; and his beloved cats, Stonewall and Sebastian. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Margaret Ayer Daly.
Steve had many joys in life. Growing up he excelled at wrestling and became an Eagle Scout. He loved to travel with Stephanie. Their numerous trips took them many different places; their favorite spots always included the Caribbean including many trips to Cancun, where Steve enjoyed numerous scuba diving adventures. He had many talents including over 30 stained glass pieces. He enjoyed spending time outdoors from motocross in his younger years to many days boating at Oak Run and golfing trips with his brother, nephew and friends. Steve also enjoyed his Friday evening boys club meetings and spent several years as a certified SCUBA Instructor. Steve and Stephanie were proud Parrotheads and enjoyed many Jimmy Buffett concerts. He was also a member of many organizations.
Steve was a good man with a good heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Steve’s generous giving spirit continued on by being an organ and tissue donor, saving and enhancing the lives of many different people. He touched many lives and will be eternally loved and missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him in his all too short 63 years of life.
Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, January 7, 2022 at Grace Anglican Church, Galesburg. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at the Thomas Legacy Center. Cremation will be accorded following services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Steve’s favorite charities, Knox County Humane Society, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Wounded Warriors, or the FISH Food Pantry. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
