Steven D. Horvath

Steven D. Horvath, known as “Big Steve” or “Senior” or “Big” to many in his family, passed away peacefully at his home on April 20th, 2025 in Glen Ellyn, IL, at the age of 74.

Steve was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 15, 1951. He graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1969, attended Triton College, and went on to play semi-pro football for the Chicago Lions, while he worked in his family business in Maywood Ted’s Auto Repair. Steve operated the auto repair shop for many years, earning a reputation not just for his expertise, but for his honesty and integrity. Customers knew they could count on him, not just to fix their cars, but to treat them like family.

He spent his free time loving football, whether it was an NFL Bears game, Glenbard West High School Hilltoppers, or Saint Francis Spartans. Steve was an avid sailor with a sailboat in Monroe Harbor and New Buffalo, MI. He participated in the Chicago to Mackinac Race for 11 years, and in 1992, he took first place in their division and 3rd overall in the race.

He loved spending time at his summer home in Hayward, Wisconsin, fishing for musky, or Marco Island, Florida, with his family and friends.

Steve had a smile that put others at ease and hands that were always ready to help. Kind, humble, and strong, he taught his children and grandchildren the values of hard work, compassion, and resilience. He lived simply, gave generously, and loved deeply — leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him

Steve married Patricia Vercillo and had son Steven T. Horvath. Later He married Filomena Spair and had son Joseph Zachary Horvath and daughter Elizabeth Horvath (Furey).

He is survived by his children, Steven T. (Eleanor) Horvath, Joseph Zachary Horvath, and Elizabeth (Jake) Furey; grandchildren, Theodore W. Horvath, Joseph Horvath, and Brooklyn S. Furey; His brother, Daniel (Diane) Horvath, and Brother, James (Frances) Horvath; nephew, James (Krissie) Horvath, nephew, Daniel (Elizabeth) Horvath, niece, Gina (Joseph) LaBarbera, and Lisa (David) Greenfield.

Preceded in death by parents Theodore G. Horvath and Jeanne Horvath.

The visitation will be held on Friday, April 25th at Leonard Funeral Home, 565 Duane St, Glen Ellyn, IL from 2 pm to 7 pm. At 6 pm, the family will share memories of Steven D. Horvath, followed by a Catholic Memorial Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve’s name to Big Sissabagama Lake Shore Owners Association, PO Box 254, Stone Lake, WI 54876 would be appreciated

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