John Stege, age 94, passed away on January 6, 2026.

John was born on May 30, 1931, in Chicago Heights, Illinois. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years during the Korean War. Following his military service, he earned a degree in civil engineering from Indiana Tech University and built a long, respected career in the field.

John was married to Billie C. Stege, and together they shared 51 years of marriage.

He was preceded in death by his son, Steven Strunk; his daughter, Trisha Robbins; and his siblings, Robert Stege, James Stege, and Marsha Leitzman.

John is survived by his wife, Billie Stege; his children John Stege Jr., Darryl Strunk (Connie), Kathryn Stege, Elizabeth Stege, and Karen Simpson; and his daughter-in-law, Kimberly Strunk. He is also survived by his siblings Marilyn Mason and Karen Glass.

John was a proud grandfather to Shannon McFarlin (Chet Sherwood), Roger Robbins, Ali Daly (JD), Casey Sparnell (Wesley Hull), Garrett Strunk (Alex), and Olivia Strunk. He was a loving great-grandfather to ten great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Lakeside Funeral Home.

John will be remembered for his quiet strength, dedication to his family, and life of service. His legacy lives on through the many generations he helped shape.