Peter G. Steil

MADISON - Peter Gordon Steil, age 79, passed away on June 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Peter was born in Green Bay, Wis., on August 7, 1946, to Joseph J., Jr. and Edith Friess Steil.

Peter spent his early years in Green Bay before moving with his family to Monona, Wis. He was a proud graduate of Monona Grove High School, Class of 1964, and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in 1969 and later received his master’s in school psychology in 1972.

Peter dedicated his professional life to supporting children and families as a school psychologist, first serving Manitowoc County Schools until 1985, then continuing his career with the DeForest School District until his retirement. His compassion and commitment had a lasting, positive impact on countless lives.

Peter married Janet Wallmow on June 14, 1969. Together, they raised three children: Jennifer (Ralph) Palma, Natalie (Tony) Hart, and Joe (Lisa) Steil. Peter was fortunate to find his soulmate, Cathy Huber-Steil, whom he married on August 25, 2005, and welcomed stepchildren: Ian (Lisa) Blum and Molly (Collin) Grotenhuis into his life.

A devoted grandfather, Peter delighted in spending time with his grandchildren: Liam, Reid, Hank, Luke, Finley, Evan, Will, and Cooper. They were his pride and joy.

Peter is survived by his loving wife, Cathy; his sister, Mary (Fred) Schaefer; his children, stepchildren, and cherished grandchildren; as well as extended family and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Patricia Collins; and Cathy’s mother, Joann Huber.

Beyond his educational career, Peter was a spirited entrepreneur-an accomplished house flipper, landlord, Subway franchise owner, and realtor. He found great joy in his nearly annual fishing trips with his son, Joe, cherished his time at the cabin in Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula, and loved skiing in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula with his children in his younger years, always making sure to stop at the Bell Chalet for his favorite pizza. Peter also had a great love for cars, whether racing in his youth or proudly driving his ’72 blue Stingray Corvette. In his later years, Peter enjoyed traveling with his wife, Cathy, throughout the country, and just this past summer, he took his entire family on a memorable cruise to the Bahamas. One of Peter’s favorite things was listening to music, often putting songs on repeat for everyone to enjoy (or occasionally to drive his family a little crazy)!

Peter was a passionate and selfless contributor to the community. He volunteered as a den leader with the Boy Scouts of America and dedicated countless hours with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Peter’s warmth, silly sense of humor, and generous spirit touched all who knew him. His devotion to family, unwavering support for others, and love for life will live on in the hearts he leaves behind.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the in-patient staff at Unity Point-Meriter Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion along with Hospice.

A funeral service will be held at MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5202 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, Wis., at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Visitation will be held at the church from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday. A funeral service will be held at MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5202 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, Wis., at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Visitation will be held at the church from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday. A celebration of Peter’s life will be held following the service at Christy’s Landing, 2952 Waubesa Ave., Madison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to UW Carbone Cancer Center, Second Harvest Food Bank, or the Madison VA Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420