Stephen Michael Dennison, 73, of Altona, Illinois, died Saturday, June 18, 2022 after drowning with his brother, Keith doing what they loved, fishing.
Steve was born July 26, 1948 at his grandmother’s home in Toulon, Illinois, the son of George E. and Jessie M. (Cantwell) Dennison. He attended and graduated from ROVA High School in 1967 where he excelled in basketball. Steve met and married the love of his life, Linda Lee Thurman on September 26, 1970 in Galesburg.
Steve is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda of Altona; their two daughters, Stephanie (John) Bowen of Galesburg, Illinois and Alyssa (Josh) Brodie of Dahinda, Illinois; his beloved five grandchildren, Nicholas Bowen, Madyson (John) Clark, Noah Bowen, Clair Whiteside, III, and Karleigh Whiteside; and one great granddaughter. Steve is also survived by two brothers, Clarence Dennison and Ricky (Cheryl) Dennison both of Kewanee, Illinois; and one sister, Marsha (Rick) Neubauer of Wisconsin. Along with his brother Keith, Stephen was preceded by two additional brothers, Lonny and Bobby; and his parents.
Steve was born with the gift of gab. He enjoyed talking to everyone he met, and never knew a stranger. Steve enjoyed being around his house from sitting in his garage watching the world go by to tending to his yard and garden. Steve also was an avid reader and photographer (sharing many of his cell phone pictures to his family and friends). At least once a year, Steve would get out the old photo albums and look through each picture reminiscing. He also loved to camp, fish, ride his motorcycle, and follow sports. Any trip in the car was better if it ended at a sporting event. Steve played Santa Claus at the Sandburg Mall for many years. He bought a scooter in 2021, dressed up as Santa Claus at Christmastime, rode around Altona with his handmade bag (made by Linda) handing out gifts to the town children.
Steve’s wishes were to be cremated. No services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.
