Steven A. Koga

On Tuesday, May 24th, Steven A Koga (66) passed away after battling lymphoma cancer, which had come out of remission just before Easter. He passed away in peace, with his wife by his side. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Raymond and Gertrude Koga, and his brother Michael Koga. He is survived by Barbara, his wife of 35 years, their three sons, Daniel, Kevin and Sean; and his brother Donald. Steve and Barb warmly welcomed their first daughter-in-law, Lisa, into the Koga family at Daniel's wedding in November of 2014; and their second daughter-in-law, Mary, at Kevin's wedding in January of 2015. Steve will be missed by his nephews, Michael and John Koga, and his many cousins.

A member of the 1968 class of St. Gregory the Great High School, Steven was president of the student council and lettered in four sports. Steven was a member of the Alpha Beta Gamma fraternity at DePaul University where he rose to become president of the fraternity and represented that group not only at the University level but continued his commitment to Catholic education. Steve made lifelong friendships in his college days, many exist to this day. Steve attended John Marshall Law School and practiced law for almost 40 years. He will be dearly missed by his partners, colleagues, associates, and clients.

Steve loved the outdoors. Throughout his life, he enjoyed hiking, camping, canoeing, sailing and scuba diving. These activities helped form and reinforce life long bonds with his friends and family. As a Boy Scout, and later a Boy Scout leader, Steve guided several scouts including his own sons on their path toward Eagle Scout.

Steve had a passion for music. He played guitar in several wedding bands over the years, as well as with his parish at Saints Peter and Paul in Cary, IL. His talent was loved and will be missed.

As a friendly neighbor, Steve was actively involved in the communities where he lived. While helping to make countless neighborhood parties forever memorable for kids and adults alike; there too he formed lasting friendships.

Having never missed a single one of his Son’s many sporting, scouting, or music events, Steve formed friendships with other parents. One of these friendships opened the door to Steve’s lifelong desire to be a sailor. For the past 10 years, new friendships in the sailing community trained Steve and his Son’s in competitive off-shore sailing. In turn this led to additional and much cherished family friendships.

Steve was a reverent and involved Catholic. Over the years Steve participated, and helped coordinate many faith enrichment retreats, marriage support groups, and volunteer outreach programs. In addition to so much of his time, he gave many heart felt, supportive, and inspiring speeches; all with an incredible sense of humility. He set a true example of what it means to follow in Christ’s path. Arrangements under the direction of Drake & Son Funeral Home, Chicago, IL.