Steven Michael Ida

Steven Michael Ida, age 63, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 11, 2025 after a long and courageous journey with Early Onset Alzheimer's.

Steve was the most laid back, easy going guy – a breath of fresh air most would say. He always had a smile on his face. A Cicero firefighter turned Lieutenant, he always took pride in the job. Ready to help anyone at a moments notice is what made his 27 year career so successful.

He was an avid Blackhawks and hockey fan. He had a borderline obsession with the Dave Matthews Band, often listening to them on the back patio with a cocktail or searching for tickets to their concerts, which he attended countless times. He loved being outside whether that meant riding his bike, golfing, fishing or simply enjoying the beautiful weather.

His true joy in life was his family. Husband, dad, grandpa, son, brother and uncle he mastered all those titles with ease. Married to his wife Cheryl for 41 years their relationship was one for the books. The sarcasm exchanged between them often had us rolling with laughter.

Dad to Deanna and John, he took great pride in their successes and provided support and love in their failures. His favorite part of life began when his grandchildren arrived, Hunter and Brooke. The special relationship they had while nowhere near long enough was really something to see. The kids brought him so much laughter and memories to last a lifetime.

The love so many had for Steve is a testament to the wonderful, kind, warm person he was.

Steven M. Ida, loving husband of Cheryl Ida, beloved father of Deanna (Derek) Hartmann and John Ida. Cherished grandfather of Hunter Hartmann and Brooke Hartmann. Beloved son of Virginia (the late John S.) Ida. Dear brother of Richard (Joanne) Ida and the late Joanne (Wayne) Scharnak. Fond uncle to many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 2:00 – 7:00 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025. Prayers will begin at 9:15 am at the funeral home. Guests may begin arriving at the funeral home at 8:30 am. A procession to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 8404 S. Cass Ave., Darien, for a 10:00 am Mass will follow prayers. Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Steve's name may be made to Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter www.alz.org/research