04/01/2026
In the early hours of March 29, 2026, Steven Allan Brunson—known to many as “Brunny” and to his beloved granddaughter Novaeh as “G‑Pop”—hung up his hard hat and left the building. Steve was the kind of person who left an impression—one of a kind, quick‑witted, and armed with an infectious sense of humor and charisma that could catch you off guard in the best way.
Steve spent his career as a proud union millwright and welder, known for his skill, his work ethic, and his willingness to take on any project that needed doing. He was the kind of guy who could fix anything, was always ready to lend a hand or a hammer and was never one to sit still for long. Whether he was jumping out of airplanes, tubing down the river, or heading out on his annual Labor Day canoe trips with friends, Steve lived life with a sense of adventure and a cold one waiting in the shop.
He cherished the simple joys—campfires, good company, blue truck rides with G-Baby seeking deer, and the satisfaction of making the field look perfect every summer after hours of mowing. He was always the first to lend a hand, the first to crack a joke, and the first to turn hard work into something fun.
Above all, Steve was passionate about being a dad and a “G‑Pop.” His children, Collin and Olivia, were his greatest pride along with his granddaughter Novaeh. He also shared an unbreakable bond with his sister, who was not just family but his best friend.
Steve had many friends, but what people will remember most is his humor—sharp, clever, and delivered with a grin that made you feel like you were in on something special.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone lucky enough to have known him.
Steve leaves behind a legacy as sturdy as a steel beam and as warm as a campfire. His laughter and love will be forever cherished by his children, Collin “Mogli” and Olivia “Brudders” Brunson; his granddaughter Novaeh “G‑Baby”; his mother Sharon; his sister Theresa “Sister” and her husband Paul “Outlaw” Feehan; his brother Robin and his wife Tammy; and a wide circle of relatives and friends who were lucky enough to know him. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard, and his grandson, Rocky “Walter”.
We invite you to share your favorite “Brunny” story and upload a photo or two to the memorial page. Steven would want us all to gather for a laugh, a story, and a cold one in his honor.
Visitation will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at McCorkle Funeral Home – Rockton Chapel, 767 N. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton, IL, with Pastor Dan Herman officiating. Burial will follow at Shirland Township Cemetery.
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Steven was born on May 9th, 1963 and passed away on March 29th, 2026 at the age of 62
