Michael J. Steines

Michael John Steines, 75, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 6:10 a.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026 at Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville, Illinois.

Mike was born July 26, 1950 in Davenport, Iowa the son of Loren Arthur and Mary Lou (Norpel) Steines.

Mike was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War, serving honorably in the United States Army from 1970 to 1972. His service reflected a deep sense of duty and commitment to his country during a challenging and historic time. Mike went on to marry Marsha Faye Reynolds on June 30, 1973 in Woodhull, Illinois. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Marsha of Galesburg; his beloved children Chris (Alissa) Steines of Oswego, Illinois, Michele (Tim) Walgren of Eustis, Florida, Heather (Brad) Hopping of Galesburg , and Shaun (Megan) Steines of Ft. Hood, Texas; his adored grandchildren, Dylan(Emily) Hopping, Ryan (Lauryn) Walgren, Zach Steines, Mitchell Walgren, Matt Steines, Isabella Steines, Logan Hopping, Addison Steines, Oliver Steines, and baby Rosemary Steines due in February; and two great grandchildren, Lillian Walgren and Camryn Hopping. Mike is also survived by his siblings, Rick Steines of Lyles, Tennessee, Sheri (Jim) Hanson of Little York, Illinois, Janet (Joe) Stewart of Alpha, Illinois, Judy Mundy of Silvis, Illinois, Steve (Andrea) Steines of Alpha, and Sharon Hunt Steines of Galesburg. Mike was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David Steines.

Mike always took pride in working on cars, a passion that expanded during his service as a large equipment mechanic in the U.S. Army. The skills he gained in the military became the foundation for his career, leading him to own and operate Woodhull Plaza Garage in Woodhull, Illinois for many years. After retiring from the garage, Mike went on to work in retail automotive parts management until he retired in 2020. His passion for cars carried outside of his work, he enjoyed building classic cars with his sons, attending car shows, and racing at DuQuoin and Cordova Speedway. Mike’s talents carried well beyond engines. He could fix or repair anything no matter the job. Family always came first. Mike, Marsha, and the kids enjoyed many memorable camping trips throughout the United States. Among his favorite, included a 3-week camping trip to California with 4 kids in a station wagon pulling the camper. Mike loved being Grandpa and Great Grandpa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Private burial will at Alpha Cemetery, Alpha, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.