Stephen L. Stonehocker

Stephen L. "Steve" Stonehocker, age 70, of Morris, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, with his family by his side.
Steve was born May 31, 1955 in Missoula, Montana, the son of the late Simon and Ollie (Bronson) Stonehocker. He was raised in Trout Creek, MT, and graduated Salutatorian of his class from Thompson Falls High School. He continued his education at Montana State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.
Steve relocated to Joliet after accepting a position as an engineer for Caterpillar, Inc., working first at the Joliet plant and later at the Aurora facility. He dedicated many years of service and knowledge before retiring in 2014 as a Marketing Specialist, a position which permitted him the opportunity to travel the world.
Spiritual and faithful to the Lord, Steve was a man of deep faith who shared his love for Jesus as a devoted and active member of New Community Christian Church. Diligent in his preparation for bible study classes, he delighted in sharing his knowledge of theology, especially the Acts of the Apostles and the Book of Daniel, and church history. His worship family meant the world to him.
Steve was a man of many talents, and his creativity shined brightest when he was playing the piano, singing, or enjoying photography, among many other interests. Steve was grateful for the opportunity to share his love of the Lord through the publication of his book, "For the Glory of God".
Steve met his beloved, Sheryl Bunger, and married her on July 9, 2011 at Fox River Lutheran Church. They enjoyed 14 years of marriage until his untimely passing.
Steve is survived by Sheryl; their children, Whitney (Doug) Lyles of Seneca, Anthony Sgro of Milton, FL, Jon Sgro of Morris, Brandon Sgro of Seneca, Nathan Sgro of West Lafayette, IN, and Rochelle Stonehocker of Clinton, MT; their grandchildren, Alli Lyles, Buck Lyles, Dax Sgro, Wyatt Sgro, Lennox Sgro, and Hattie Hamilton-Sgro; two sisters, Betty (Gary) Johnson and Donna Rae (Brooke) Thompson; two brothers, Lloyd (Marcia) Stonehocker and Jim (Marian) Stonehocker; two sisters-in-law, Marsha Stonehocker and Julie Stonehocker; mother-in-law, Mary J. (Leathers) Bunger; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Elaine Hodgins; brothers, Douglas and Robin Stonehocker in early childhood, Dale Stonehocker, and Kent Stonehocker; father-in-law, Eugene H. Bunger, and grandson, Axl Ryan Sgro in infancy.
Visitation for Stephen L. Stonehocker will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 12:00 p.m., at New Community Christian Church, located at 1380 Heritage Dr, Morris. Interment will follow services in Evergreen Cemetery, Morris.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be made to New Community Christian Church, (www.newcommunity.com/give) or Help4HD, (www.help4hd.org), the foundation whose mission is to educate about Huntington's disease (HD) and Juvenile Huntington's disease (JHD).
Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For more information, please call 815-942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.