George Stephen Erker

George Stephen Erker (Steve), passed away on February 23, 2026 after 73 wonderful years of life, in Phoenix, Arizona. He was the devoted widower of Annette Erker, his beloved wife with whom he shared a beautiful marriage of 25 years together.

Born on March 29, 1952 in Detroit, Michigan. Steve was adopted by George & Barbara Erker in St. Louis, MO. He was raised by George & Patty Erker, and Bill & Barbara Chrisler. He was an adoring husband to Annette Goelz Erker, and supportive father to Lauren and Joseph Erker.

Steve was a boisterous, funny, life-of-the-party kind of guy. He spent decades as a health insurance broker, along with various other side endeavors throughout the years. He always made time to be at every school function and play, sports event, church dance, choir concert, Boy Scout trip, and was sure to be the man-behind-the-home video-camera.

Steve had a deep love for music and played percussion for his church. He was an incredible cook, especially when it came to grilling, and took great pride in bringing people together around food. Which led to no surprise when he and his wife Annette started a catering company in both St. Louis and Phoenix during the late 80's and early 90's. The two of them left lasting impressions on all of their friends and family with their hospitality, kindness, culinary traits, and love.

Steve had the most wonderful sense of humor and never took life too seriously. He loved classic old movies and was known for his famously terrible one-liner dad jokes that always made those around him smile. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and the joy he brought into every room.

Steve is survived by his two children, Lauren Erker and Joseph Erker, daughter in-law Kristen Erker, his grandchildren: Terrell, Terrence, Lynette, and Theodore. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annette Erker.

A celebration of life service will be announced at a later date.

We find peace and comfort knowing that Dad is in the arms of our Lord and Savior, reunited with his wife and parents, and that his legacy lives on through his funny quips, love of music, lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.