Stephen Michael Couillard

January 19, 1963 – May 19, 2025
Stephen Michael Couillard, 62, of Colchester, Vermont, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 19, 1963, in Burlington, Vermont, Steve was the son of the late Clement and Arlene Bovat Couillard.
Steve was married to the love of his life, Annette Wilkinson Couillard, for 40 years. Together, they raised two beautiful daughters who brought him endless pride and joy: Jaime Short and her husband Greg Short, and Kristy Cross and her husband Brandon Cross. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren-Raegan and Bennett Short and Colbie and Carson Cross-who adored their "Popi" and will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Though Steve never had sons of his own, he shared a close and comical bond with his sons-in-law, Greg and Brandon. Their relationship was full of playful teasing, shared laughs, and constant back-and-forth banter. Despite the jokes, there was a genuine mutual respect and love between them. They proudly called one another "Dad" and "Son"-sometimes sarcastically, often affectionately-and the laughter they brought to family life was something Steve treasured deeply.
Steve spent his early years in South Burlington, where he attended South Burlington High School and the Burlington Technical Center. In this community, he forged lifelong friendships and built the foundation of his character- hardworking, loyal, and full of quiet strength.
Steve began working at Kerry's Quick Stops in his youth, where his hard work was quickly recognized. He later brought that same passion to General Dynamics, Triangle, and for the past 25 years, Husky Injection Molding Systems, where he had planned to retire later this year.
Beyond his career, Steve had a deep love for sunshine and muscle cars-especially Mustangs. He found peace in summer days, speed on winding roads, and joy in simple moments with those he loved. His favorite times were often the ones spent soaking up the sun, music playing, laughter in the air, and surrounded by family and friends. Steve was known to have a bit of a grouchy exterior-gruff, sarcastic, and not always quick to show emotion. But those who truly knew him understood that beneath that tough shell was a heart of gold. Once Steve let you in, you were in for life. Those lucky enough to have earned it knew just how much he cared. Steve will be remembered most for his unwavering work ethic, his love for his family, and his difficult-to-induce but contagious smile.
He was predeceased by his mother, Arlene Bovat Couillard; his father, Clement Couillard; and his brother, Rick Couillard. He is survived by his sister, Deb Couillard Sheehan and partner Scott Paquette, and his brothers, Terry Couillard and Bob Couillard, along with Bob's wife, Karin. He is also survived by brother-in-law Brian Sheehan and sister-in-law, Maria Couillard. He leaves behind many cousins, nieces, and nephews who cherished him-most notably his cousin Jerry Couillard, whom he loved like a brother.
To know Steve was to love him. His presence brought laughter, his humor brought light, and his love brought strength. He leaves behind a family that will forever miss him and a circle of friends that spans decades. The memories he gave us will never fade.
A service to honor and celebrate Steve's life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Burlington. There will be a reception to follow at Rozzi's in Colchester. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Steve's brother, Rick, whose loss was deeply felt by Steve.
Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for our years with Steve. His spirit lives on in every story told, every sunny day, and every rumble of a 5.0 engine in the distance. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Stephen, please visit our Tree Store.