Steve Eugene Philbrook

Princeton -Steven E. Philbrook, born on July 16, 1946, to the late Lowell and Dorothy (Snyder) Philbrook, passed away on March 13, 2024. He was an avid hunter, golfer, and family man. Steve graduated from Princeton High School, as part of the Class of 1964, where he participated in football, basketball, baseball, and golf. He pursued higher education at Illinois Wesleyan, before embarking on a unique adventure to Hawaii. Upon returning to Illinois, Steve joined the Illinois Department of Transportation, where he dedicated over three decades of his life to public service. He remained committed to his work until his retirement in 2001. On July 9, 1977, Steve married Joan Seeforth at St. Louis Catholic Church in Princeton, Illinois. Together they shared many years of love, laughter, and companionship as they raised their children. In his leisure time, Steve was an avid outdoorsman and sports enthusiast. He spent his free time golfing in the spring and summer and hunting in the fall and winter. He could tell you what he shot on any hole on any course and how everyone did on any of their Thanksgiving hunts. He appreciated the thrill of competition and the camaraderie it fostered among friends and family. Steve's dry sense of humor and lockbox of a memory made any conversation with him an experience. He could recall the history of his hometown perfectly, knew every back road, and always kept an eye on his loved ones. His approach may have been gruff, but he always followed through with intention and care. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Joan Philbrook of Princeton, IL; two children Steven (Paige Ahlstrand) Philbrook of Ohio, IL, and Jordan (Ian Peldonia) of Milwaukee, WI; four grandchildren Steven, Charleigh, Remi and Huntley; one sister, Ellen (Larry) Ringenberg; as well as a host of relatives and friends who will miss him dearly. Preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Dorothy Philbrook, sister Teresa Philbrook, and his best four-legged friend, Brant. Graveside services to be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Elm Lawn Cemetery in Princeton, IL at 11:00 a.m. Officiated by Deacon John Murphy. Cremation rites accorded Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Steve Eugene Philbrook

July 16, 1946 - March 13, 2024