Wayne Elmer Steffen, 88, of Grayslake, IL passed away July 31, 2023, at his home in Saddlebrook Farms.

He was born on December 14, 1934, to Walter and Bernice (nee Worden) Steffen in Hebron, IL.

Wayne worked on his family farm in Richmond, IL and at P&H Harnischfegal Diesel Engine in Woodstock, IL until he met his wife Carol June Winters in 1962. He started with Frank G. Hough Company in March, 1963 (which became known as International Harvester, then Dresser Industries, and, finally, Komatsu American Corp). After Wayne retired from Komatsu in 1991, his favorite job was helping his daughter, Cathy, with her different businesses.

Wayne and Carol were married on July 28, 1962, and just celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary.

Wayne was a working man. After retirement, you could often find him working on some project at his workbench, tending to his garden, riding his bike, or working on his home. He was a true tradesman, often opting to roll up his sleeves and deal with his problems head on.

Wayne is survived by his loving Wife of 61 years Carol June Steffen; Daughter Cathy Ann Daniel (nee Steffen);

His four beloved Grandchildren: Corie (Christa) Volk, Michael (Laura) Daniel, Christopher (Kati) Daniel, Caitlyn (Christopher) Guetschow;

Seven Great Grandchildren: Zoe Daniel, Jameson Canfield, Ariana Daniel, Finley Daniel, McCarthy Guetschow, Cameron Guetschow, and Declan Daniel;

And, finally, his loving dog, Bailey.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Bernice; brother Charles ‘’Butch’’ Steffen; his sister, Beulah, and brother-in-law Ralph Kick.

Wayne will be best remembered by his grandkids for threatening to put padlocks on pantries, trying to harbor the aces in a game of Rummy, teaching them how to play cards, and all his “Wayne-isms.” Cathy will best remember her father for being a hard worker, who made sure she had everything she needed to become the successful woman she is today. Carol will always remember Wayne for being a family man first, and making sure she and Cathy had everything they needed. Like everyone else, she will always remember that Wayne never met a stranger that he did not befriend.

Wayne will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends.

Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday August 6, 2023, from 11am to 4pm with a 3:00 pm service at Northern Illinois Funeral Services, Inc. at 31632 N. Ellis Drive, Unit 209, Volo, IL. Wayne’s service will be officiated by Rev. Cheri Tuccy.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Wayne’s name to Shriners Children’s Hospital at 2211 N. Oak Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60707, or at their website shrinerschildrens.org.