Stephen Allen Wilgus

     Stephen Allen Wilgus of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on December 24, 2023, after a long illness.

 

     Steve was born in Tell City, Indiana, on June 28, 1949, to John and June Wilgus. Steve attended schools in Evansville and Madisonville, Kentucky, before studying engineering at Vanderbilt University. While in college, he was a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, participated in intramural sports, and was a flag-bearer in R.O.T.C.

 

     Steve was a civil engineer for the city of Nashville and then worked for the federal government for 33 years. 

 

     He was preceded in death by his parents John and June Wilgus and is survived by Diane, his wife of 51 years. He is also survived by his sons Zak and Adam (Holly), grandchildren Molly, Lora, and Reese, and his brother Tom (Pat).

 

     Steve was an active member of Connell Memorial United Methodist Church in Goodlettsville beginning in 1981. Steve taught many Sunday School classes and small groups as recently as this October. He was also on the Pops baseball team at one point. He worked with the youth group for many years as a counselor, which he truly loved. 

 

     Steve was an avid reader, sports enthusiast, keen card player, and sent personalized cards to many people for all occasions. He was known for his calm demeanor, being nonjudgmental, and for his listening skills for everyone he met. 

 

         Steve traveled extensively with his job and did not want to travel much after retirement.  However, his two exceptions were the mountains with extended family and St. Simons Island, Georgia.  After taking the youth group to Epworth by the Sea on spiritual retreats, he was passionate about taking family trips there at least once a year.  He called it his “thin place.”

 

     Steve will be missed by his loving family and all those whose lives he impacted. Rest In Peace, Big Steve, Dad and Papa Bear!

 

     A Memorial Service honoring Steve will be held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, January 13, 2023 at Connell United Methodist Church in Goodlettsville, a reception with refreshments and storytelling will follow the service. Visitation will be on Friday from 4-7 P.M. also at the church.

 

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Connell United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.