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. 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.
Steve’s path in life was anything but ordinary. While he spent time at Larson’s Meats, he was best known for running Yuletide Trimmers and Christmas Trees for many years, helping families bring home the tradition of a real Christmas. 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 Brekin Owen. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Maggie.
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.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a cause close to Steve’s heart.