MADISON - Steele W. Schilling, age 82, passed away on January 28, 2026, after a valiant battle for life. He was born on July 15, 1943, to Ralph and Margaret (Schulte) Schilling in Wausau, Wis. He was united in marriage with Karen (Doering) Schilling on June 9, 1979.

Steele graduated from D.C. Everest in Schofield, Wis. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962-1966. He went to work for MG&E and retired as a meter inspector in 2003 after 37 years.

Steele was a member of the American Legion Post No. 360 in Waunakee, Wis. He was honored to be a member of the Military Honor Guard. He was also a Pioneer Partner in the AT&T Pioneers and between the two groups, enjoyed working on various projects that helped many people until his health limited what he could do.

Steele is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters, Wendy (Peter) Teska and Kari (Chas) Dean; sons, Joe and Tony (Johanna) Schilling; along with his sisters, Carmenn Myers, Gloria Steiro, Mayme (Michael) Tracy and Cindy Schilling; and sisters-in-law, Kathryn Doering and Christine Ohler. He is further survived by the special loves of his life - his granddaughters, Rachel, Mackenzie, Kaylee and Zoe, along with bonus granddaughters, Brenna, Tani and Olivia; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was lucky to have a large family of aunts, uncles, and cousins that made growing up a hoot. The adventures they had! Steele was preceded in death by his parents; and parents-in-law, Peter and Arline Doering.

Special thanks to Dr. Mattison and his team - especially Nedege and Eva - who helped him fight against AML (acute myeloid leukemia) for almost four years. Dr. E. George will always have our gratitude for spotting the issue that led to his diagnosis.

A memorial service will be held at LAKEVIEW LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4001 Mandrake Road, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, followed by Military Honors and a graveside service at Lakeview Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the American Legion Post No. 360. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. You are my treasure and I’ll always love you!! - Karen

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Steele W. Schilling

July 15, 1943 - January 28, 2026

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