H. Steve Armstrong

CHARLESTON, IL – Steve Armstrong, age 69 of Charleston and formerly of Oakland, IL, entered his heavenly home on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.  Visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, June 3, 2013 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston.  The Memorial Mass honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 921 Madison Avenue in Charleston with Father John Titus presiding.  Inurnment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery located in Mattoon, Illinois.   It is suggested that thoughtful donations in his honor be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St. Vincent DePaul or to the Make a Wish Foundation.  Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the Visitation or Memorial Mass, or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920. 

Steve was born on September 12, 1943 in Tuscola, Illinois and was a son of the late John and Wilma (Fulwider) Armstrong.  He married the love of his life, Kathryn Fickes, on May 12, 1973 in Mattoon and they recently celebrated forty years of marriage and friendship.  In addition to Katie, Steve is survived by two children; a son, Andy Armstrong of Paris, France and a daughter, Liz Vorass and her husband Shawn of Milwaukee, WI; brothers-in-law and sisters-in law, Bob Fickes of Worth, IL, Sandra (Robert) Hardin of Streamwood, IL, Dennis (Dixie) Fickes of Las Vegas, NV and Philip (Judy) Fickes of Morton, IL; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Larry Armstrong and John David Armstrong and a brother-in-law, David Fickes. 

Steve was a graduate of Oakland High School and furthered his education at Eastern Illinois University.  He honorably served his country and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant from the United States Army Reserves.  Steve was employed with the Reasor Corp. for a number of years, first as a draftsman and then as Assistant Manager of Sales.  He later was a Prudential Insurance Agent and advanced to Sales Manager for the Charleston area, and for the past ten years has been employed as a Sales Representative for Luxury Homes.   He is a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Charleston, the Knights of Columbus Council #4024, and a past member and president of the Charleston Kiwanis. 

Steve was one of a kind!  He was blessed with an extraordinary sense of humor which he shared with everyone and could promote a smile just by giving you that special look.  Growing up he loved to help his grandfather on the family farm near Hindsboro and he relished sharing the stories of those times in his life which remained very special to him.  Steve was genuine and his feelings for others were heartfelt.  His admirable qualities of generosity and compassion accompanied by a kind and loving spirit were enhanced through his humble and unassuming attitude.  He was a man of integrity whose tolerance, patience and easy going demeanor created a special person that many were blessed to call their friend. 

Steve was an avid golfer, enjoyed photography and yard work, was patriotic and had a love for country, was a John Wayne fanatic, and a grill master – his BBQ chicken was delicious!  He was best at being a wonderful and loving husband and father who always made his family a priority.  He was proud of his children and their accomplishments and excelled at being a good role model.  Steve will always be fondly remembered by his family and friends and they will forever cherish their many amazing memories.