Leona Marie Steffenhagen

Leona Marie Steffenhagen passed away peacefully on Saturday June 21, 2025. She was born on July 12, 1934 in Chicago, IL to parents Benjamin Anderson and Viola Gabbert.
Leona married the love of her life, Dave, on August 16, 1952, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chicago. Together, they shared 72 wonderful years of marriage, raising a family with deep values and unwavering love. Her life was centered around her home and family, where she found joy in the everyday moments and strength in the bonds she nurtured.
A gifted seamstress, Leona was known for her beautifully made quilts, lovingly crafted with care and artistry. Her talent and attention to detail brought warmth and beauty into many lives. She began her career as a beautician, running her own shop from home in Chicago, where she combined her skills with a friendly, personal touch. After moving to Hawthorn Woods, she continued working at Kemper Insurance and later at Echo Manufacturing in Lake Zurich.
Leona had a deep appreciation for history and community, reflected in her longtime involvement with the Union, Illinois Historical Society. She also enjoyed the company of friends and good conversation through her memberships in the Gourmet Luncheon Club of Hawthorn Woods and the Luncheon Club in Wonder Lake, Illinois.
Above all, Leona was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose love and dedication shaped the lives of those around her. Her warmth, creativity, and kind spirit will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Leona is survived by her children: Laura (Mike) Hartwig, David (Mellode) Steffenhagen and Jeffery (Susan) Steffenhagen; her sister and Lynn (Thomas) Casey, her grandchildren: Eric (Kayla), Chris (Shannon), David (Lynille), Emily (Josh), Kaitlin (Richard), Amanda (Lewis), Nadine (Josh), Mary, and Aimee (Alex); 15 great grandchildren, and nephews Tom (Laura) and Wayne(Kathy).
She is preceded in death by her husband David Steffenhagen, her parents Benjamin and Viola Gabbert, her sister Viola (Thomas) Maurer, her Aunt Elsie and Uncle Walter, and nieces and nephews: Barbara, Mary, Bill, Ken, Terry, Bob and Johnny and her grandparents Cyril and Marie Kalabza who she was very fond of.