Steve was born May 26, 1933 in Springfield, Illinois, the son of Herbert and Susan Pasfield Bartholf. He was raised in Springfield and attended Lake Forest Academy and graduated from Kenyon College in Gambier, OH. He was also a veteran of the US Army and served in Germany.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Susan Bartholf, and sister Carolyn Oxtoby. Steve met and married Carol (Stickney) and they had 43 wonderful years together.
He is survived by his sons Stephen Jr. (Kelly) Bartholf, Charles (Tracy) Bartholf and daughter Ann Hathaway, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Steve started his career at the Illinois National Insurance Company as an underwriter. In 1963 he created and managed the Design Center which specialized in contemporary furniture and design. The company won a national award for Graphic Design (Printing Industry of America) and was in the AIA Journal and Interiors Magazine.
He joined Horace Mann Educators as Vice President, Administrative Services. While in this position, he oversaw the construction of the Horace Mann building in Springfield, IL. Steve worked with the internationally known architect Minoru Yamasaki on the project. He continued his insurance career as President of the firm Casper, Bartholf and Miller before retiring.
Steve was very civic minded and cared for his community. He was a board member of Marine Bank, Bank One Springfield, Abraham Lincoln Association - V.P., Memorial Medical Center Foundation-Vice Chairman, Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), Prairie Capital Convention Center (elected to the board), Illinois State Museum Society, Lincoln College, Copley First citizen Award Board, Springfield Historic Sites commission, Sangamon County Historical Society, Children and Family Services, and numerous other organizations.
He was a past member of Island Bay Yacht Club, Illini Country Club and The Sangamo Club in Springfield, IL. He was also a past member of The Colony Golf and Bay Club and Pelican Isle Yacht Club in FL.
Steve loved his summers in Old Mission, Ml with his family and his beloved dogs. He first went to Old Mission when he was 6 weeks old. He was there every summer he possibly could, except for the war and his military service. He was also an accomplished woodworker, designing and building beautiful furniture. He will be remembered for his kindness and great integrity.
A private memorial service is being planned with family Graveside Service at Oak Ridge Cemetery. The family is being served by Boardman-Smith Funeral Home, 800 S. Grand Ave. W., Springfield, IL
Steve will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Memorial contributions may be made to: Springfield Memorial Foundation, or the Animal Protective League.
