Steven Leigh Pallai

Steven Leigh Pallai, 58, of Springfield, died at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO. Steven was born November 28, 1950 in Taylorville, the son of Marcel and Ova "May" Lowery Pallai. He married Reyne Howland on October 20, 1979 at the First United Methodist Church in Wood River, IL. Steven spent twenty-eight years as a coal miner and heavy equipment operator with Peabody Mine #10, Pawnee. In later years, he was employed as a custodian for Springfield Public School District 186. He was a member of the United Mine Workers Union Local 9816 for over 40 years. Steven had always been known for being a great bulldozer operator and he loved his bulldozer. He also enjoyed yard work, handyman projects and spending time with his wife, son and also his Boston Terriers, Peabody, Jack, Jill and Jeorge. He was a caring, soft-hearted gentle man. Steve attended Tovey Elementary School, and South Fork Community High School. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Michael Pallai; and three of his Boston Terriers, Peabody, Jack and Jill. He is survived by his wife of thirty years, Reyne Pallai of Springfield; his son, Adam Steven Pallai of Springfield; his sister, Sharon Merrill of Heyworth; his mother-in-law, Cleona Howland of East Alton; and his beloved Boston Terrier, Jeorge. Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral ceremonies will follow visitation at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Jacob Skelton officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Home, 3306 S. 6th St. Rd., Springfield, IL 62703.