Steven P. Kuelling

Steven “Steve” Kuelling, 75, of Loves Park, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 3, 2026. Born January 19, 1951, in Rockford, IL, he was the son of John W. and Adeline C. (Christian) Kuelling and the youngest son of eight children.

Steve married Margaret “Maggie” A. Brockman on May 26, 1973, in Loves Park, IL, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in family, hard work, and shared creativity. Together, they brought that creativity to life by transforming the old Loves Park movie theater into Crafter’s Gallery & Gifts, a space that reflected their shared love of handmade goods, community, and small business.

Steve’s path in life was anything but ordinary. While he spent time at Larson’s Meats, he was best known for his many years running Yuletide Trimmers and Christmas Trees, helping families bring home the tradition of a real Christmas - something he truly loved. He was a familiar face at auctions throughout the area, where he found joy in the hunt, the history, and the people - often working alongside local auctioneers and always keeping an eye out for the next great find. Whether it was a unique piece, a forgotten treasure, or something that simply caught his eye, he had a way of bringing home items that sparked conversation, curiosity, and sometimes a bit of laughter.

He is survived by his daughter, Aimee Kuelling; his sons, Andrew “Andy” Kuelling and Jeremiah “Jer” (Ella) Kuelling; and his grandchildren, Tanner Leuellen, Brinley Kuelling, and Breckin Owen. He is also survived by his siblings, Nanc (Rene) Miley, Joyce (Chuck) Peters, John (Jean) Kuelling, Bob Kuelling (Diane), Karen (Larry) Spencer, and Cindy Pillow. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Maggie; and his brother, Bill Kuelling.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 8616 West State Street, Winnebago, IL. Arrangements are being handled by Delehanty Funeral Home, Loves Park. The family will host a small, private gathering to celebrate Steve’s life. Those wishing to attend may contact the family for details.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be made to a cause close to Steve’s heart.