Stephen L. Wilson

Stephen L. Wilson

Des Moines

Grandpa Steve left us on Oct. 27, 2023. He died peacefully at his residence with his family at his side.

Grandpa Steve was born to Stephen Charles Wilson and Maxine (Franks) Wilson, in Manchester, Iowa, on Oct. 1, 1947. He had two older sisters, Barbara (Wilson) Smith Voepel and Eileen (Wilson) Lubben. He graduated from West Delaware High school in 1965. Soon thereafter, he met and married my grandmother, Dorothy Barnes. They were married for 36 years and had one daughter, my mother, Theresa Wilson. Grandpa Steve is survived by my mom [John Lundquist], me (his granddaughter Illyria Lundquist), and many nieces and nephews.

Grandpa Steve spent 44 years working in the highway division of the Iowa Department of Transportation. He loved being able to travel throughout the state for his job. He didn’t like to fly, though. He conquered his fear of flying in 2004 and spent the next several years making up for lost time travelling to various spots throughout the United States. He even moved to Henderson, Nev., for a short time before deciding he didn’t like the bugs there.

Grandpa Steve spent the last years of his life doting on me. He loved my energy and how I kept my parents on their toes. He always appreciated the art I made for him.

There will be no memorial service for Grandpa Steve, as he never wanted to be the center of attention. He loved animals, so I think he would be happy if friends and family wanted to give a donation in his name to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. My mom made a video tribute for him. You can see it at https://clipchamp.com/watch/PLGAetegtH9.