Stephen J. “Steve” Mason, 65, of Maquon, passed away at home on November 28, 2023.
Steve was born January 26, 1958 in Galesburg. He was the son of James and JoAnn (Knott) Mason. He married Patricia A. “Patty” Kelley on June 17, 2006. Together they celebrated 17 years of marriage. Surviving Steve are his wife, Patty of Maquon; mother, JoAnn Moore of Galesburg; children, Kaleb (Tiffany Crews) Mason of Moline and Annalisa (Brandon) Skaggs of Farmington; siblings, Scott (Pam) Mason of Gilson and Sheri Wooten of South Carolina; ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Robert.
Steve was a 1976 graduate of Spoon River Valley High School. He worked as a mechanic, in the mines and would retire from Caterpillar as a grinding specialist on February 1, 2023. He was an avid Tennessee Vols football and basketball fan. His favorite thing to do was fish. Steve loved to mow, he always said there was a blade of grass somewhere that needed cut. He also loved to cook and smoke meat. He was known throughout the community as “Uncle Steve” He was a good man and often referred as a “Gentle Giant”. Steve had a big heart and loved his wife, family and dog, Scooter.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will be at a late date. Memorials may be donated to the Knox County Humane Society. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory are assisting the family with arrangements. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
