Philip L. "Phil" Steiner

Philip L. Steiner, a cherished pillar of the Argyle community, passed away on August 24, 2024, at the age of 89 in Freeport, Illinois. Born on April 14, 1935, in Argyle, Wisconsin, the son of Lawerence and Irene (Phillipson) Steiner. Philip's life was marked by his loving spirit, adventurous nature, and kindness that touched all who knew him.
After graduating from Argyle High School in 1955, Phil's zest for life led him to UW-Platteville, where he showcased his athletic prowess as the starting punter for the football team. His dedication to his hometown was evident when he returned to Argyle, a place he held dear throughout his life. It was here that he married his wife Jill Hawley on June 8, 1957, at Yellowstone Lutheran Church in Argyle and he began his journey as a devoted family man and a respected member of the community.
Phil's professional life was as varied as it was impactful. He started as a bookkeeper at Phillipson Garage before taking a leap of faith in 1962 by purchasing an insurance company from Melven Phillipson, thus founding Steiner Insurance Agency. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he successfully ran the agency until his retirement in 2000. Alongside his insurance career, Phil served the younger generation as a school bus driver for the Argyle School District, a role he cherished greatly.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Phil was known for his robust involvement in local associations. His commitment to service was reflected in his membership with the Yellowstone Lutheran Church and its church council, the Argyle/Adams Fire Department, the Argyle Rod and Gun Club and Ducks Unlimited Chapter 013. Phil. He was one of the original seven owners of the Norseman Supper Club. He cherished the times spent with the other owners whether it be cleaning up after a party or partaking in the parades promoting the supper club. His community service extended to his role on the board of the Woodford State Bank.
Phil's interests were as expansive as his service to the community. A lover of the great outdoors, he frequently retreated to his cabin in Hayward, savoring the tranquility of nature. His passion for travel took him across the United States and Europe, capturing memories with his camera-including filming the Argyle fish fry and the Packers' training sessions in the 1960s. An avid sportsman, Philip enjoyed barefoot skiing, pheasant hunting with his father and uncle, and fishing with his father-in-law Robert H. and family.
A man of many hobbies, Phil was a collector at heart. His collections ranged from John Deere tractors to antique cars, and he was an active member of the S.W. T-Bird Club. His love for parades, coin collecting, and his role as Santa for the village of Argyle showcased his spirit of celebration and joy. Phil's adventurous soul was also reflected in his love for skiing with his family and his participation in the local tradition of Raga Muffin.
Family was the cornerstone of Phil's life. He is survived by his children, Rick (Val) Steiner of Argyle, Jeff (Tina) Steiner of Blanchardville, Jada Steiner of Argyle, and Pam Steiner of Argyle; his eight grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren and one brother: Van Steiner and his special friend, Mary Buschor. Each family member can attest to Phil's loving nature and the profound impact he had on their lives.
Phil is preceded in death by his parents: Lawerence and Irene (Phillipson) Steiner, his loving wife: Jill Steiner and one grandson: Grant Berg.
Philip's legacy is one of love, adventure, and kindness-a life well-lived and full of purpose. His impact on the Argyle community and beyond will be felt for generations to come. As we remember Philip L. Steiner, we celebrate a life that was truly wonderful and an example to us all.
A visitation will be held on Thursday August 29, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle, WI (801 Milwaukee Street, Argyle, WI 53504). A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 1:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at Corner Pub & Deli (213 E. Milwaukee St., Argyle). Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.