Stephen Smallwood, age 69, passed peacefully in his home on Sunday, October 12, 2025. He was born April 3, 1956 to Sammy and Elizabeth Smallwood In Rockford, Illinois. On June 6, 1992 he married the love of his life, Michelle (Feurer). Steve had two daughters, Janelle (Tom) Ragusa and Julie (Kevin) Stream. He was blessed with ten grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Jeffrey Lockhart, Jayden Ragusa, Tyce Ragusa, Jordan Smallwood, Evan Smallwood, Chloe Smallwood, Greyson Stream, Noah Stream, Ryleigh Stream, and Jocelyn Stream.
He was preceded in death by his father, Sammy.
Steve attended Harlem High School and after school enlisted in the United States Marines. After his service he started a successful industrial electronics service company, SIESCO, and had just celebrated 40 years in business.
Steve was very generous with everyone and considered kindness as common sense. He loved spending time with his loved ones. He enjoyed traveling the country with his wife, camping with friends, white water rafting, playing his guitar or mandolin, and maintaining his heavily wooded property, but most of all bragging about his grandchildren. He enjoyed teaching any lesson he could in the moment, a simple man yet the depth of knowledge, passion, and connection was endless. Steve was a proud member of the Venetian Club in Rockford and valued his many friends. If you met him you will never forget him nor be forgotten. We will carry the harmony of his soul with us as we will forever hold a place for him in our hearts.
Steve would always attack life, was a fighter and cancer survivor and never showed signs of giving up. He left many fond memories for everyone to cherish.
A visitation for Steve will be held on Tuesday, October 21 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115 with a burial to follow. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, October 22 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Venetian Club, 2180 Elmwood Rd, Rockford, IL 61103.
