MADISON - Steven E. “Steve” Killerlain, age 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. He was born on Feb. 26, 1953, in Madison, Wis., to Gerald (Jerry) and Joann (Starr) Killerlain.

On Sept. 10, 1983, Steve married the love of his life, Shawn, in a beautiful ceremony at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. They took their vows seriously, especially when they promised to love one another through sickness and health. Together, they had two beautiful daughters both of whom had Steve wrapped around their fingers.

Steve’s career was in the automotive industry, having worked more than 20 years at Kayser Ford in Madison until health challenges forced him into an early retirement.

Steve loved spending time with his family, getting together for weekend cook-outs and card games. He enjoyed summer camping trips, tubing down the river, playing softball, hustling people in pool and a good 7&7 cocktail. Competitive to his core, Steve always hosted a 4th of July party where his only goal was to out-do the fireworks put on by the Stoughton Fair. He was an avid football fan, especially of the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers, often coaching them from the comfort of his couch.

Steve always said his greatest accomplishment in life was the family he created. Not only was he a proud and loving husband and father, but the most amazing papa to his four grandchildren, Sierra, Conner, Cain and MadiLynn whom he took on the fatherly role for.

Steve is survived by his daughters, Lisa Marie and Sarah Ann; grandchildren, Sierra, Conner, Cain and MadiLynn; siblings, Dennis, Joellen, David, Teresa, Tracy and Todd (Sandy); as well as his uncle, Paul (Ginny); and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Shawn; his parents, Jerry and Joann; sister, Rhonda; and mother-in-law, Jeanne.

A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2023. A celebration of life will follow at the VFW Day Post 7591, 301 Cottage Grove Road, Madison.

Steve’s family would like to thank Dr. Mark Anderson and Nurse Sandy, the staff of the 4th and 5th floor at UW Health Madison East Hospital and the staff at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg for the loving and compassionate care given to Steve.

Memorials can be made to the family to be determined for use at a later date. Online condolences may be made to www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Steven E. Killerlain

February 26, 1953 - February 28, 2023

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